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Apart from its interactive features, the mask functions just like other protective equipment | Photo source Tyler Glaiel
LED face mask mimics pattern of mouth
A video game designer developed an interactive, voice-controlled facemask on which the wearer can make a smile display on demand
Spotted: Face masks have become the new normal around the world, which has led to many innovative iterations. The video game programmer and designer Tyler Glaiel created the JabberMask, an interactive, voice-activated facemask with an LED display that moves like a mouth in time with your speech and smile and can display emojis on demand.
Apart from its interactive features, the mask functions just like other protective equipment. It is made of cotton, which studies have recently shown works almost as well as surgical masks — this part can be removed and washed. To keep it as light as possible, the straps go all around the wearer’s head and the battery sits right at the back.
There are three different versions of the JabberMask. The Lite is the basic model with a 6×6 LED grid that displays the moving mouth and smile and is battery powered, the Deluxe has a larger 8×8 LED grid and a rechargeable battery, and the Pro adds emoji support that can be controlled through an Android or iOS app.
Glaiel is currently seeking funding for the JabberMask through Kickstarter with pledges starting at €25. If the project goes according to plan, then they will begin shipping in May 2021.
Now that face masks have become essential in our everyday lives, communication barriers have also become apparent. The JabberMask aims to address this, though it may prove difficult for those still getting used to wearing a mask every day to feel comfortable displaying electronic facial expressions on top of them. But as masks become more common, so too, over time, will more advanced and multi-functional iterations.
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