Bosch Sensortec Acquires MEMS Microspeaker Innovator Arioso Systems

Bosch Sensortec announced the acquisition of Arioso Systems, the Fraunhofer IPMS spin-off company that developed its own innovative sound transducer principle for miniaturized MEMS microspeakers based on the patented Nanoscopic Electrostatic Drive (NED) principle. With this acquisition Bosch expands from MEMS microphones to the attractive market segment of silicon microspeakers, soon to be at the core of new generation true wireless hearables. Arioso’s technology delivers significant less power consumption, smaller size, and easier system integration.
 
According to Bosch Sensortec, already a leading vendor in sensing solutions for consumer electronics, the acquisition of Arioso Systems will accelerate development of the technology and provide the scale required for this level of manufacturing. At the same time, Bosch Sensortec expands its expertise in MEMS microspeakers and strengthens its market position as leading provider of solutions for consumer electronics. 

Arioso Systems, based in Dresden, Germany, is to become part of the Bosch Sensortec GmbH, headquartered in Stuttgart. The agreement was signed by Bosch and Arioso Systems, and it has been agreed that any project details such as the purchase price will not be disclosed. The acquisition is still subject to approval by the antitrust authorities.

“The planned acquisition of Arioso Systems further enlarges our sensing solutions expertise for consumer electronics in the field of micro speakers and makes us even more diversified. We are thus consistently expanding our strong position as technology leader in this area,” says Dr. Stefan Finkbeiner, CEO at Bosch Sensortec. Arioso Systems’ unique concept and innovative technology, combined with Bosch Sensortec’s experience in high-volume consumer electronics solutions is a perfect match given the requirements in MEMS manufacturing. Manufacturers of true wireless stereo (TWS) earbuds and new-generation hearables will benefit from these advanced microspeakers, which deliver significant less power consumption in a smaller form factor, allowing for expanded battery run time and easier system integration.

“The whole Arioso Systems team is excited to become part of the most powerful global provider of sensing solutions and to take the next step in expanding our leading-edge technology,” says Hermann Schenk, CEO of Arioso Systems. “Joining our forces means we can leverage the full potential of our MEMS microspeaker technology.”

Arioso’s technology enables MEMS microspeakers that are able to generate up to 120dB SPL from a 10mm2 active area. Thanks to its unique electrostatic actuators, and its very low capacitance, Arioso Systems’ MEMS transducers are ideal for the requirements of very low-power true wireless designs. For more information about Arioso Systems and its MEMS audio transducer technology read this article.
www.arioso-systems.com
www.bosch-sensortec.com