A tiny new silicon micro-speaker could transform future wearables — like Apple Watch and other smartwatches — by dramatically reducing thickness while improving audio quality, xMEMS Labs said Tuesday. It unveiled Sycamore-W, an ultra-thin micro speaker engineered for wrist-worn devices. It could make more room in devices as new features like AI interactions become more prevalent.
“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.”
xMEMS Labs Sycamore-W micro speaker
The new Sycamore-W is part of xMEMS’ expanding line of piezoMEMS audio innovations, following its successful introduction of the world’s first all-silicon micro speakers. This latest offering is specifically designed for wrist-worn wearables like smart watches and fitness bands.
For Apple enthusiasts who have long awaited slimmer watch designs without sacrificing functionality, this development could be transformative. At just 1 millimeter thin in a 20mm x 4mm form factor, the Sycamore-W reduces speaker package space by an impressive 70% compared to traditional components. That could enable dramatically slimmer, sleeker device profiles while still delivering high-quality, full-range sound.
Great value as smartwatches do more, like AI
The timing couldn’t be better as Apple continues to position the Apple Watch as a central hub for AI interactions.
The technology aligns perfectly with Apple’s design philosophy of creating ever-thinner devices without compromising on performance. The speaker’s remarkably slim 4mm wide x 1mm thin profile minimizes intrusion into the watch cavity, potentially freeing up valuable internal space that Apple could utilize for additional biometric sensors or larger batteries in future Watch generations.
Incredibly lightweight
Weight reduction is another significant advantage that would benefit Apple Watch wearers. Compared to legacy coil speakers that typically measure 3 to 4mm thick and can weigh up to 3 grams, the Sycamore-W weighs a mere 150mg, dramatically reducing strain and enhancing comfort — crucial factors for devices worn throughout the day.
Sycamore-W also features robust construction, xMEMS Labs said. The speaker maintains the solid-state durability that xMEMS products are known for, featuring component-level IP58-rated protection against dust and water, along with impressive 10,000g mechanical shock resistance. These qualities make it particularly suitable for active lifestyle wearables and outdoor-oriented smartwatches.
Production begins in 2026
While Apple has not announced any plans to incorporate this specific technology, the alignment with the company’s design priorities makes it a compelling possibility for future devices. Currently, samples of the Sycamore-W are available to early access customers, with volume production scheduled to begin in Q2 2026.
For Apple users who enjoy other products in the ecosystem, the original Sycamore µSpeaker will continue serving broader applications, including smart glasses, open-fit earbuds and laptops. Additionally, xMEMS plans to announce other Sycamore family variants tailored to specific applications later this year.
Apple continues to push the boundaries of wearable technology. So innovations like Sycamore-W represent the kind of component-level advancements that could enable the next generation of thinner, lighter and more capable Apple Watches. And that could transform how users experience sound and interact with AI assistants directly from their wrists.
Read more about xMEMS Labs micro-speakers:
- xMEMS Labs micro tweeter helps power audio in new AI sports glasses
- xMEMS Labs drives faster adoption of solid-state micro speakers for earbuds
- New xMEMS micro speaker brings big sound to smartwatches, AR glasses and more
- xMEMS bets tiny silicon ‘fan on a chip’ will change mobile-device cooling
- First over-ear headphones with xMEMS solid-state micro speakers coming soon
- Creative Aurvana Ace 2 earbuds: A glimpse into portable audio’s future [Review]
- Noble’s swanky new earbuds use xMEMS’ advanced solid-state driver
- Coming ‘ultrasonic’ revolution could change wireless earbuds forever
David Snow, an expert on Apple hardware and software, writes on a variety of technological and cultural topics for Cult of Mac. They include Apple news, technology buying guides, and features about computer setups and Apple TV shows and movies.
With 30 years of experience covering technology and other subjects, he has written and edited for numerous print and online publications, including CMP Media, TechTV.com, CNET, Wired News, Red Herring magazine, Law.com, The National Law Journal and Law Technology News magazine. Among other roles, he served as executive editor of the Law.com network of websites and editorial director, technology, for ALM Media.
Snow graduated with a B.A. from Syracuse University with majors in magazine journalism and psychology. While there, he worked as a reporter for The Daily Orange newspaper and associate editor of Equal Time magazine.
Founder of the blog At the Waterline, he can be reached on X (formerly Twitter) via @atthewaterline and on Mastodon via @dsnow.
