Spotted: The Japanese startup Donut Robotics has unveiled a smart face mask that connects to smartphones. Dubbed the “C-Mask,” it allows users to make calls remotely without speaking directly into their mobiles and is capable of sending text messages via speech.
The device fits over normal, fabric-based masks and uses Bluetooth to connect to an app that transcribes speech to text messages, which are then sent via the user’s smartphone. The smart mask can also be used to take notes and minutes and can translate from Japanese into eight other languages. In case users can’t be heard through the mask, voice can be amplified.
But these are only the beginning of its plans for the C-Mask, the company aims to expand into augmented reality and virtual reality capabilities at a later date.
“We worked hard for years to develop a robot and we have used that technology to create a product that responds to how the coronavirus has reshaped society,” said Donut Robotics CEO Taisuke Ono.
From September, C-Mask will launch in Japan with 5,000 units at a price of 3,980 Japanese yen each (roughly €32.64). Donut Robotics aims to later expand its market to the United States, Europe and China.
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