A startup is trying to cash in on the recent surge in face mask sales caused by the coronavirus outbreak — by selling bizarre-looking masks that are printed to resemble the face of the wearer underneath it.
"We make N95 respiratory masks that work with facial recognition software," promises the nebulous website. "Be protective and be recognized. It's so easy."
The idea is to protect users from infection, while still allowing them to unlock their iPhones using FaceID — or be recognized by Big Brother facial recognition systems in public.
The masks are the work of newly-launched design firm Resting Risk Face, which advertises its wares as "trendy dystopian products."
The ploy is either brilliant social commentary or an actual product being sold — we're still not exactly sure which one it is. Or could it be both? Futurism has reached out to the company to find out.
To get your hands on your very own face-face mask, you have to upload an image of your face, then wait for it to show up in the mail.
But you'll have to wait. "If you enjoy late stage capitalism, facial recognition respirator masks will retail for $40 per mask," reads the website's FAQ. "They are still in development."
But seriously, is this actually a thing or is it a joke-slash-PR stunt?
"Yes. No. We're not sure," ponders the website. "Viruses are not a joke. Wash your hands when you can. And get vaccines when you can."
READ MORE: Face ID compatible respirator masks. [Resting Risk Face]
More on face masks: Chinese Outbreak Fear Spurs Worldwide Face Mask Shortage
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READ MORE: Face ID compatible respirator masks. [Resting Risk Face]
More on face masks: Chinese Outbreak Fear Spurs Worldwide Face Mask Shortage