Wear anti-translation mask, hear 8 languages

When wearing masks became the norm in the context of a pandemic, Japanese startup Donut Robotics developed a smart mask that connects to phones and translates from Japanese into eight other languages.

The smart mask is white, about the same size as a standard mask. It has the ability to connect to mobile phones and tablets via bluetooth to turn words into text messages, make calls and amplify the wearer's voice.

A mask can be connected to the phone via bluetooth - (Image: Reuters)

"We have been working hard for many years to develop a robot, and we have used that technology to create a product that responds to the way corona virus has shaped society," said Taisuke Ono, executive director. Donut Robotics told Reuters news agency.

Donut Robotics engineers came up with the idea for a smart mask while looking for a product to help the company survive a pandemic.

When the Covid-19 epidemic broke out, the company was bidding to provide a translation robot for Haneda Airport in Tokyo - a product facing an uncertain future due to the collapse of air travel because of the pandemic.

The mask looks eye-catching - (Image: Reuters)

Donut Robotics has built a prototype of the mask within a month by combining the company's translation software and mask design created by engineer Shunsuke Fujibayashi four years ago.

Donut Robotics raised 28 million yen ($ 260,000) to develop the mask by selling its stock through Japanese crowdfunding fund Fundinno.

About 5,000 first masks of Donut Robotics will reach Japanese consumers starting in September. The company is seeking to reach the markets of China, the US and Europe.

With a price of about 40 USD / mask, Donut Robotics is targeting new markets. The company's goal is to generate revenue from subscription services on the app.