xMEMS Announces 1-mm Thin MEMS Micro Speaker ‘Sycamore’

xMEMS Labs, a venture-funded startup, has introduced the Sycamore µSpeaker: A 1-mm thin, full-range micro speaker designed for compact devices such as smartwatches, smart glasses, and open-fit earbuds.  

Sycamore aims to address the increasing demand for slimmer and lighter consumer electronics without compromising audio quality. Additionally, the all-silicon, solid-state construction makes Sycamore IP58 rated, enhancing its durability and resistance to water and dust. 

PiezoMEMS technology 

The Sycamore speaker is built on piezoMEMS (piezoelectric microelectromechanical system) technology, utilizing an ultrasonic platform to generate full-frequency audio. Compared to conventional dynamic drivers, Sycamore is significantly smaller, with dimensions of 8.41 x 9 x 1.13 mm and a weight of 150 mg. This makes it approximately one-seventh the size and one-third the thickness of traditional drivers.   

“MEMS has been around for decades—motion sensors, pressure sensors, etc. But those were all sensing technologies, and this is next level MEMS—it’s transduction,” explained Mike Housholder, VP of Marketing and Business Development at xMEMS Labs, speaking from the company’s office in Manhattan.

“We’re adding a layer into the process, which is this piezo layer,” Housholder said. “It’s deposited as part of the semiconductor manufacturing process, so it’s integrated into the silicon. That’s our actuation layer—we added an actuator into the silicon to move the silicon up and down.” 

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Sycamore’s specs

According to xMEMS, Sycamore achieves a low-frequency roll-off comparable to legacy drivers, with an additional 11dB of sub-bass extension. It also reportedly delivers enhanced high-frequency performance, with a 15dB increase in output above 5 kHz. These specifications suggest potential applications in devices requiring compact but high-performing audio solutions, such as open-fit earbuds, smartwatches, and eyewear.    

The Sycamore speaker is designed primarily for near-field audio applications. It complements other xMEMS products, such as the Cypress µSpeaker, which targets in-ear active noise-canceling (ANC) earbuds.   

“This is our first foray into free air speakers—all of our MEMS speakers to date have been focused on in-ear or over-ear personal audio,” Housholder said. “This will be the first time that the technology has been true enough where we can go into free air.” 

The Sycamore’s compact size and claimed performance characteristics open possibilities for various uses beyond wearables. For smartphones, it may serve as a higher-quality earpiece speaker, while in automotive contexts, it could function as a micro-sized tweeter for headrests or pillars.   

Production and availability  

Sycamore is fabricated using the same process as other xMEMS products, such as the Cypress µSpeaker and the XMC-2400 micro-cooling fan. This shared platform aims to streamline production and accelerate development cycles. xMEMS plans to begin sampling the Sycamore in Q1 2025, with mass production expected by October 2025.   

As consumer devices continue to emphasize thinner and lighter form factors, innovations like the Sycamore speaker highlight how microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) technology can address these design constraints. While traditional dynamic drivers have been the industry standard for decades, advancements in MEMS technology are enabling new approaches to audio component miniaturization and integration.  

The Sycamore speaker reflects ongoing efforts to combine miniaturization with audio performance in consumer electronics. Its adoption and impact will likely depend on how manufacturers integrate it into next-generation devices.

About xMEMS Labs 

Founded in 2018, xMEMS Labs specializes in piezoMEMS technology and holds over 190 patents globally. The company has developed a range of MEMS-based products, including audio solutions and micro-cooling systems for consumer electronics, and has existing partnerships with brands such as TSMC (Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company) and Bosch.   

Sarah Alburakeh is a strategic content editor.