A Weird Digital Mask Keeps People Away

Ever looked in the mirror and thought, “These old human faces just aren’t expressive enough”? Maybe you need the Qudi Mask 2, a gadget that displays your emotions on a robotic screen while concealing your identity if desired.

Functioning more like a digital face shield, the Qudi Mask 2 allows you to withdraw from the world, yet boldly announces your presence to everyone, including startled dogs you encounter.

Practical Considerations in Daily Use

We’re brainstorming situations where this mask could be useful in everyday life, but we’re unsure about its suitability for a first date, a pay rise meeting with your boss, or a funeral where you might want to hide your tears from others.

However, if you struggle with maintaining a poker face, programming a neutral expression could give you an advantage during games night. Moreover, you’d likely always have an empty seat next to you on the bus or train. In this regard, it could be the most effective mask we’ve seen for ensuring social distancing.

Unfortunately, the creators discourage wearing it while driving, as it would definitely add entertainment while stuck in traffic.

Enhanced Design Evolution

The makers of this somewhat unsettling robotic face received such positive feedback on their earlier model a few years ago that they’ve refined it.

Believe it or not, the Qudi Mask 2 features a much improved design compared to its predecessor, which resembled snowboarding goggles atop a bulky nose and mouth shield.

The new model boasts an oversized, curved eye screen and a slightly less intimidating mouth cover.

Similar to its predecessor, this model includes a digital mouth that moves in sync with the wearer’s speech and responds to specific head movements—nodding for ‘yes’, shaking for ‘no’, and tilting for expressions of confusion or uncertainty. The digital mouth animates as the wearer speaks, offering over 30 different mood expressions through its expressive eyes and eyebrows.

Personalization Options

For those who prefer customization, there’s an in-app emoticon creator that allows users to showcase their personality further. Beyond mere ownership, the mask provides extensive options with hundreds of adjustments available for eyes, mouth, brows, and colors.

The mask offers three distinct designs: the headset remains consistent while the digital display varies between the basic ‘robot‘, the whimsical ‘kawaii‘ model, and what appears to be the playful ‘XX‘. Additionally, users have the option to enhance their mask with accessories such as cases featuring cat ears or Shrek ears, available for an additional fee.

Enhanced Design and Functionality

This updated mask appears to be an improvement over its predecessor, featuring a more streamlined design that fits less snugly on the face.

It boasts a battery life of approximately three hours, depending on the type of LED display settings used, and can be conveniently recharged on-the-go via a USB-C cable connected to a powerbank.

To conclude, Having already met its funding goal on Kickstarter, backers who opted for the Super Early and Early Bird offers can anticipate shipment starting in December. Prospective buyers should check the campaign page for specific shipping costs and available regions. Currently, the mask is priced at US$129, representing a 35% discount off its anticipated retail price.

Read the original article on: New Atlas

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