This master’s thesis focuses on designing a speech enhancement device intended to improve face-to-face communication for individuals with voice disabilities. Conducted in collaboration with Whispp, a company specialising in assistive voice technology, the project builds upon Whispp’s AI-powered app that converts whispered or impaired speech into clear, natural-sounding speech. The goal is to create a microphone that connects to the app, enabling seamless real-time communication in various social settings.

Voice disorders affect millions of people worldwide, significantly impacting their personal and professional lives. Current assistive devices often lack comfort, discretion, and usability, leaving room for innovation. This project follows the Double Diamond design methodology, starting with user research to identify needs and challenges. Interviews and surveys revealed that users prefer lightweight, discreet, and hands-free devices that can adapt to different environments.

Four concepts were developed: an extendable necklace, an around-the-ear boom, a ring, and a voice nosepiece. Following an evaluation involving weighted objectives and user feedback, the around-the-ear boom design was chosen for further development due to its comfort, effectiveness and discreet design. The final design features an ear hook with a flexible hinge for size adjustment, a compact body to house the internal components and a microphone wire. The device connects wirelessly to a phone via a dongle, transmitting the user’s voice to the Whispp app for processing. Audio output options include phone speakers, a wireless speaker, or open-ear headphones. The estimated production cost of the complete set, including a carry case, microphone and open-ear headphones, is €75.61. The microphone alone costs €40.15, resulting in an anticipated retail price of approximately €200 for the full set and €100 for the microphone.

User testing confirmed the device’s comfort, usability, and functionality. This thesis illustrates how thoughtfully designed assistive devices can seamlessly support everyday communication and enhance quality of life for people with voice disorders.