These mikes use a technology known as MEMS (microelectromechanical systems).

ECONOMIST: Noise-cancelling technology

At a microelectromechanical systems conference that is taking place at Interlaken, Switzerland, from January 21st-25th, the researchers will describe their latest creations, which include moving microparts that are driven by light.

ECONOMIST: Microelectronics grows up

The technology is based on highly efficient solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) and microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) wafer fabrication methods, including key nanotechnology elements, and is fueled by recyclable high energy power cartridges, or pods.

ENGADGET: Lilliputian debuts Nectar Mobile Power, promises two weeks of battery life per cell

We know the following to be true: microelectromechanical systems ( MEMS) technology can foster some very inventive gadgetry, and it's a wonderful four-turn, 45-point Scrabble word (barring special tiles and presuming an abnormally-large board).

ENGADGET: Hitachi's MEMS display: big aspirations in a little prototype