The Sycamore solid-state speaker, which was introduced last year, has been enhanced by California-based xMEMS Labs to become the thinnest in the world.

Smartwatch manufacturers are packing an increasing amount of functionality into a wearable form factor that doesn't demand gym exercises or bulk up the wrist. Because internal space is limited, xMEMS claims that its innovative Sycamore-W design reduces speaker package volume by up to 70%, freeing up space for sensors and bigger batteries, reports New Atlas.

According to xMEMS Labs, this near-field MEMS micro speaker is only 20 x 4 x 1.28 mm (0.78 x 0.15 x 0.05 in) in size and hardly moves the needle at 150 mg, whereas legacy coil speakers for equivalent applications can weigh up to 3 g and be 3 to 4 mm thick.

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It generates sound waves by using thin-film piezo actuators to stimulate a silicone membrane. With a similar mid-bass response and punchy performance at the higher registers, the design, according to the inventors, requires less back volume than small-form dynamic drivers.

The solid-state design is also robust, with component-level protection against dust ingress that complies with IP58 standards and the ability to tolerate shocks of up to 10,000 g.  According to the launch press release, "These qualities make it ideal for active lifestyle wearables and outdoor-oriented smartwatches and fitness bands."

"Sycamore-W redefines audio for smart watches, combining compact design with robust performance to meet the demands of next-generation wearables," said Mike Housholder, xMEMS VP of Marketing and Business Development. "As the wrist becomes a key interface for ears-free, hands-free AI interactions, Sycamore-W empowers manufacturers to deliver premium audio in smaller, lighter, more durable devices.”