Mouth-mounted microphone helps prevent eavesdropping, allowing users to comfortably talk in the virtual world

In the context of the metaverse virtual world still receiving attention from the world’s technology world, many manufacturers of virtual reality / augmented reality devices have brought a series of new products on the sidelines of the CES event. 2023 – which is taking place in Las Vegas (USA).

Among these, there is an interesting product called Mutalk, from the manufacturer of VR equipment and accessories Shiftall. Accordingly, this is a microphone model exclusively for VR users, to ensure privacy when “adventuring” in virtual space. The uniqueness of Mutalk lies in the fact that the device is designed to be attached to the mouth, with fixed straps attached around the head. In other words, Mutalk looks exactly like a VR headset, but instead of being attached to the eye, it is attached to the user’s mouth.

According to Shiftall, Mutalk is a microphone product born to solve user privacy issues when using virtual universe applications. Specifically, users may feel anxious because of what is happening in the real world outside of their virtual world. Or, the user wonders if someone is spying on or eavesdropping on his virtual chats.

However, when using Mutalk, the sound emitted by the user’s voice is almost inaudible to others. Shiftall says Mutalk reduces the user’s voice volume to a threshold of -30dB for outsiders; just like when we are whispering or speaking softly. Even when you scream in the crowd, the Mutalk device reduces our volume to the maximum, making it difficult for everyone to hear.

Naturally, other users in virtual reality applications still hear your voice normally. According to Shiftall, Mutalk is designed to be used with VR devices on the market. In addition, the device is also compatible with smartphones, allowing users to chat freely with others without fear of eavesdropping. Although still, the somewhat cumbersome and not very convenient design of Mutalk is a minus point for many users.

As it is still under development, Mutalk’s price and release date have not been announced yet.

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