Japanese company Donut Robotics has developed the C-Face smart mask alongside an app, which makes it easier for people to communicate at a distance.
According to the developers," 'C-FACE' is the world's first “smart mask that works with smartphones” developed by applying robot technology.
"With the latest technology, we have redefined the 'mask' that has been protecting humans for such a long time.
The idea behind is that it will deliver your voice to another person's phone using the the text to speech function. It can also transcribe dictation and amplify the wearer's voice.
The company originally developed the translation software for a robot called "cinnamon", but when the pandemic occurred they adapted it so it can be used in conjunction with their new face mask.
Donut Robotics said with the mask they "hope this device will be useful in a society where people naturally practice social distancing.
Translation experts
"Currently, only voice sound and text are used. In addition, we plan to expand to image systems (AR, VR) in the future. This is a new communication tool in the rapidly progressing online/digital world."
Donut Robotics chief executive, Taisuke Ono says their software uses machine learning developed with the help of translation experts and specializes in the Japanese language.
He claims that "the technology is better than Google API, or other popular technologies" for Japanese language users, because most competitor apps focus on translating to and from English.
