In the acoustics and haptics world, particularly for mobile platforms, AAC maintains an unparalleled industry standing. Focusing on the miniaturization of audio technology, AAC now introduced Opera, a coaxial speaker designed for smartphones, along with the related algorithms. This speaker aims to improve the audio experience on mobile devices, delivering superior sound quality. The coaxial solution integrates a woofer and a tweeter on one speaker module, achieving an extended range between 8kHz to 20kHz in the high-frequencies and providing a low-frequency boost of 5dB. According to AAC, the new coaxial speaker solution for smartphones has already been successfully incorporated into mass production for the OPPO Find N3.
AAC also developed an acoustic solution for foldable phones, ensuring optimal stereo sound whether the phone is folded or unfolded. And directly addressing the problem of "speaker mode" disturbing the peace in public places, this new technology even prevents sound leakage during phone calls!
Beyond smartphones, AAC exhibited acoustic solutions for tablets and laptops, featuring a 6 speakers system for frequency division between high and low frequencies, delivering an exceptional high-end product experience. Additionally, AAC offers a combo solution that integrates acoustic and haptic technologies. This solution uses X-axis linear actuators, providing more affordable and standardized high-quality products that combine haptic and auditory experiences. The combo solution has already been implemented in mass production for the Redmi Note 13 Pro+.
AAC's Turbo, an advanced biomimetic haptic actuator that takes the haptic experience of smartphones to a whole new level, has also been seamlessly integrated into the mass production of the OnePlus 12. Furthermore, AAC offers RichTap, an integrated hardware and software haptics solution that is increasingly used in smartphones. Beyond smartphones, AAC has launched haptic solutions designed for gaming controllers and handhelds.
Soprano MEMS Speaker
AAC entered the sensor and semiconductor sector in 2003 with the introduction of MEMS microphone products. Thanks to years of technical expertise, the company now masters the essential skills needed for the entire process, from chip design to packaging and testing. AAC is making steady progress in high-end microphones, MEMS speakers, MEMS inertial measurements, and RF front-end devices. Its microphone and barometer combo, along with its MEMS speakers, are housed in an ultra-small package with high performance specifications. The combined design of the microphone and barometer apertures simplifies the system's protective design (dust-proof film, dust-proof mesh). Currently, the microphone and barometer combo is primarily used in smartwatches to compensate for the accuracy limitations of GPS in altitude positioning.
Based on PZT thin film piezoelectric technology, Soprano is fabricated with pure MEMS technology and integrates the diaphragm and driver structure. In terms of acoustic performance, it extends the high frequencies to more than 40kHz, offering Hi-Res Audio certification and superb sound quality. At the same time, it can be used for hearing assistance, providing strong support for users with high-frequency hearing loss.
The AAC Soprano perfectly meets the application requirements for TWS earbuds in terms of format, size, performance and reliability, offering more flexibility and superior ergonomics to manufacturers. Its hexagonal design, with a diameter of 5mm, a thickness of only 1mm, and a weight of only 23.5mg makes the Soprano much smaller, lighter and thinner than traditional rectangular MEMS drivers on the market, saving approximately 75% of the space. At the same time, the Soprano can be modularized and integrated with AAC's self-developed high-performance FB MIC (feedback microphone) dedicated for TWS to form an integrated solution.
In order to reach the technical specifications in terms of sound pressure level (SPL) required by TWS applications, the AAC Soprano can easily achieve an SPL of ≥100dB @ 6kHz to 40kHz with a driving voltage of 1 Vrms. This technical breakthrough enables this tweeter to deliver high-frequency audio through the existing TWS Bluetooth chips without the need of a power amplifier, making it easier to apply.
And thanks to the MEMS structure design and semiconductor process, the Soprano boasts a fast response and uniformity of SPL (±1 dB) and phase (±1°), which effectively meets the requirements for spatial audio and left-right ear balance, and realizes fast and accurate 3D panoramic surround sound. This also helps TWS manufacturers in the assembly, screening and calibration of the left and right earphones, optimizing the production line process. And since the power consumption of the Soprano MEMS chip is only 50μW it also supports longer battery life designs.
Different from the package scheme of patch and wire bonding used by similar products in the industry, this new MEMS speaker uses the "flip-chip-like" package process developed in-house by AAC, which achieves a very high reliability. The Soprano has already passed all environmental and mechanical reliability assessment tests, as well as the sweat test, with an IP58 waterproof and dustproof grade, and can resist 10 kg mechanical impacts.
In terms of manufacturing scale, the Soprano's high-temperature-resistant reflow soldering can be integrated into the SMT automatic manufacturing process. Compared with traditional speaker solutions, it completely eliminates the manual or semi-automatic welding process, greatly improving production efficiency and providing the advantages of large-scale production with better quality assurance. At the same time, AAC can provide an integrated module solution of MEMS speaker + MEMS FB MIC for TWS product manufacturers, fully utilizing the front cavity space of TWS earphones, making stacking much easier and improving the assembly yield.
Automotive Applications
In the automotive realm, AAC showcased five modules, including an acoustic system, a haptic system, an image capture system, a MEMS sensing and interaction system, and a motor actuator system. An integrated sensing and interaction solution using these modules is tailored for smart cockpits and driver assist.
AAC in partnership with NETA Auto have collaboratively engineered an advanced smart audio system, which is used in the mass production of the Neta S model. This customized audio system features a 7.1.4-channel configuration with 21 speakers, delivering an immersive 720° surround sound experience. And AAC has successfully secured multiple projects with traditional automakers and new electric vehicle brands globally.
In August 2023, AAC Technologies acquired Belgium-based Premium Sound Solutions (PSS), a provider of car audio system solutions. At CES 2024, in partnership with AAC, the company showcased a car-specific ultra-slim speaker, the USS 3060. This speaker, with a size significantly smaller than traditional speakers, breaks through physical layout limitations, being able to easily fit into tight spaces such as headrests, dashboard corners, A/B/C pillars, and roof linings. Yet, the slim speaker achieves a powerful output, and excellent sound quality.
Additionally, AAC introduced a vibration-free woofer, the VFW 160, which utilizes a balanced dual-coil design to achieve self-cancellation of vibrations, minimizing door resonance and sound leakage. It maximizes the reduction of adverse effects on vehicle NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness) when reproducing low-frequency sounds. Combined with AAC's tuning and signal processing, it achieves optimal performance when synchronized with rear subwoofers, creating a more immersive and powerful low-frequency sound field.
At the PSS booth, AAC's amplifier products were also showcased, including the newly developed 20-channel amplifier. This amplifier features a lightweight design, powerful heat dissipation, and rapid response. With superior performance indicators, it can achieve a maximum of 2000MIP. Additionally, it supports multiple sound algorithms, effectively elevating the car audio experience. Beyond automotive acoustics, AAC's smart automotive super-sensory solution covers modules such as haptics, image capture systems, MEMS sensory systems, and motor execution systems. An automotive haptic button bar and automotive microphone were also highlighted at the exhibition.
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