PREVIEW

Designers have created a mask that allows you to speak freely without people around you hearing.

The Silent Mask, developed by French start-up Skyted, uses aviation technology after being created in collaboration with aerospace giants Airbus, the European Space Agency, and France's national aerospace research office ONERA.

This innovative mask incorporates LEONAR technology (Long Elastic Open Neck Acoustic Resonator), initially designed to reduce jet engine noise, to significantly dampen 80% of voice frequencies, ensuring conversations remain confidential.

Equipped with a built-in microphone, the mask captures the wearer's voice and wirelessly transmits it to a smartphone, either iOS or Android, via Bluetooth. Users can listen to the person on the other end through their preferred headphones or earbuds. The mask's design also minimises background noise interference, while an optional electronic amplification feature can enhance voice volume for clearer transmission.

The device is engineered for comfort and breathability, incorporating a ventilation system for ease of use during conversations. A unique feature allows wearers to momentarily switch the mask to an external speaker mode, making it possible to speak to someone nearby without disconnecting from a phone call. A single 1.5-hour charge of its lithium battery provides up to 10 hours of usage.

Scheduled to begin mass production in May, according to its Kickstarter page, the Silent Mask aims for a December distribution. It will be available in a wired version for £196 and a Bluetooth-enabled model for £315.