The Silent Mask absorbs the voice of the wearer and transmits it to the person on the other end of the call, preventing sound from escaping outside.
The mask absorbs the wearer’s voice. (Image: Skyted).
French startup Skyted has developed the Silent Mask to allow users to talk on the phone without worrying about others overhearing, New Atlas reported on January 8. The Silent Mask was designed in collaboration with Airbus, the European Space Agency (ESA), and France’s National Aerospace Laboratory ONERA.
The new mask utilizes LEONAR lining technology developed by ONERA, initially created to reduce jet engine noise. When used for the mask, LEONAR is said to absorb up to 80% of the user’s voice frequencies. The mask helps to reduce sound levels by about 25 decibels. Therefore, if the wearer speaks at a normal volume, those nearby will not be able to hear.
An integrated microphone captures the user’s voice inside the mask and transmits it to a smartphone via Bluetooth. The user hears the person on the other end through headphones. The Silent Mask is also equipped with technology to block external noise that could overpower the user’s voice. Additionally, an electronic amplification system can be used to increase the transmitted voice volume when needed.
The new mask also features a ventilation system that allows the wearer to breathe easily. Furthermore, during a phone call, if the user needs to speak to someone outside, they can temporarily mute the call and allow their voice to be projected through the mask’s external speaker.
The Silent Mask is equipped with a lithium battery, fully charging in 1.5 hours and providing approximately 10 hours of use. The expected retail price of the mask is $399.
