Back in April, we covered the unveiling of the world’s first solid-state speakers by xMEMS Labs. These miniature devices aim to replace traditional voice coils and magnets, which have been central to sound systems for over a century.

This innovation holds the potential to revolutionize portable audio. Although small in size, these solid-state speakers have yet to find their way into earbuds. However, that’s about to change, thanks to Creative Technologies.

Game-Changing Technology

Creative Technologies is making waves in the audio industry by integrating xMEMS’ cutting-edge micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) solid-state speaker technology into their true wireless products. Unlike conventional drivers that can lead to distortion, xMEMS’ compact hardware offers remarkable accuracy and clarity.

The all-silicon MEMS-based drivers are exceptionally rigid, leading to better phase consistency compared to conventional drivers. In fact, the claim is that they are seven times better. This translates to superior spatial audio experiences with enhanced detail and separation.

The standout feature for earbuds is the small size of xMEMS’s silicon-based driver, making it even smaller than traditional coil drivers. This integration results in lighter, sleeker, and more ergonomic earbuds.

How It Works

Instead of the century-old coil and magnet system, MEMS drivers utilize a voltage-driven monolithic piezo drive that converts signals into sound. This innovative design uses a silicon diaphragm for the speaker, with an evenly distributed piezo layer underneath.

Looking Ahead

Creative will be among the first to adopt xMEMS’ solid-state silicon driver tech, launching wireless earbuds featuring this technology later in the year.

Details about the earbuds’ specifications, battery life, design, noise cancellation, and additional features are yet to be revealed. However, Creative assures that these earbuds will provide crystal-clear sound with unparalleled accuracy.

This same MEMS piezo technology, used in inkjet printing, now delivers micro-sprayed sound directly into your ears. xMEMS introduces the Cowell, the world’s smallest solid-state micro speaker, the Montara Plus, which offers exceptional output, and the Skyline DynamicVent, equipped with vents for advanced adaptive noise cancellation. Creative’s marketing indicates the inclusion of the Skyline solid-state solution in the upcoming earbuds.

Promising Future

Will earbuds featuring this groundbreaking solid-state driver technology dominate the wireless audio market? While we can’t predict with certainty, the potential is undeniable. Although we’re excited about this partnership and the promised earbuds, we’re yet to experience the actual product.

On paper, the prospects are highly promising. Even your AirPods Pro 2 may start to feel outdated in a few months, despite the new features arriving with iOS 17.