RealNetworks Encourages Mask Compliance With New Mask Detection Kiosks

RealNetworks is trying to make it easier for businesses to enforce mask mandates during the COVID-19 pandemic. To that end, the company has released a new MaskCheck Kiosk to help automate the mask screening and enforcement process.

The MaskCheck Kiosk is essentially a dedicated physical station that comes ready to run the MaskCheck mobile app. That MaskCheck app debuted in December, and uses computer vision technology from RealNetworks’ SAFR subsidiary to determine whether or not an individual is wearing a mask, and whether or not that mask is being worn properly. The Kiosk allows venues to screen people in high traffic areas more efficiently, which in turn makes it easier to enforce any municipal masking requirements or internal workplace safety policies.

In that regard, RealNetworks noted that private businesses often carry the burden of enforcement in areas with masking laws. The Kiosk will give audio and visual cues to everyone that walks into the venue to remind them to put on a mask or adjust their mask if they are not complying with the safety guidelines.

While SAFR is best known for its facial recognition technology, the actual MaskCheck Kiosk only checks for masks and does not carry out any facial recognition matches. It also does not share any data with external parties, though participating venues can choose to submit their data to a platform that tracks masks compliance rates across the country. The app’s reporting tool, meanwhile, lets businesses view the compliance rates in their own facilities.

“MaskCheck Kiosk is battery powered so it can be used in any location a customer wants for a full day, and pre-configured with our easy-to-use MaskCheck app so that it’s truly plug and play,” said RealNetworks Chairman and CEO Rob Glaser. “With the rise of the Delta Variant, mask usage, especially in public indoor spaces, is extremely important and will likely continue to be for months to come.”

The MaskCheck Kiosk comes with an iPad 8 that can be repurposed for other applications in addition to MaskCheck. The solution can be installed in as little as five minutes, and requires a Wi-Fi connection in order to function. It is currently available in the US and Canada for a promotional price of $995.

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September 21, 2021 – by Eric Weiss