SubVox
2024
A wearable that lets you communicate without making a sound, developed between Royal College of Art and Huawei.
Collaborators
Zayna Ahmed, Will Harris, Lily Cheng, Gruffydd Gozli
Context
As we interact with AI more often, voice has become one of the main ways we do it. Speaking to a device out loud, however, is awkward in public and offers no privacy. Human-AI interaction needs a quieter interface.
Development
SubVox was created as part of a collaboration between the Royal College of Art and Huawei to explore future product lines involving communications and AI. It is a wearable device that enables silent communication in any environment. Using small sensors placed on the neck, it reads signals from the voice box to recreate speech without sound. With a small form factor, these sensors can be fitted into customizable neck bands, allowing for multiple social settings.
Beyond interacting with AI, SubVox supports two further uses: person-to-person communication and real-time language translation. Replies are delivered through earbuds, so the exchange stays silent on both sides.
Outcome
A practical, discreet device designed to fit seamlessly into daily life. With Huawei's expertise, SubVox could integrate into smart devices or accessories, offering a new way to communicate that is quiet, efficient, and adaptable, and aligning with the future of connected devices.