Years ago, Konrad Zieliński lost his voice to cancer while studying at the University of Warsaw. Those with similar conditions have often had to depend on handheld devices that produce mechanical sounds or surgical voice prostheses, which require continuous care to avoid issues, as Zieliński explained.
He later earned a PhD concentrating on bionic solutions for laryngectomees—individuals who have undergone laryngeal removal surgery. During his doctoral research, he aimed to create a non-invasive device that would enable people like himself to communicate with emotional depth, laugh, shout, and even sing.
In 2023, Zieliński established Uhura Bionics, a startup recognized among the top early-stage companies at an upcoming tech conference. The company provides two types of wearable devices: a simpler model and a premium version dubbed Whitney, in honor of singer Whitney Houston.
Zieliński envisions that laryngectomees will use Whitney in the same way that those with visual impairments use glasses.
“I take pride in what I’ve developed because it incorporates emotional expression,” he said, speaking in a voice that has notable intonation, albeit with a slight electronic quality.
Future enhancements for Uhura include adding higher-pitched voice settings tailored for women, along with customization options so that users can have unique voices.
Currently, Uhura markets its products as wellness tools, meaning users must purchase them at their own expense: $500 for the basic model and $1,500 for Whitney. However, the startup is working on obtaining Class I medical device classification in Europe, and eventually the U.S., which would enable partial coverage through health insurance.
Zieliński believes the potential market for devices aimed at laryngectomees stands at around $2 billion, with possibilities for growth if Uhura broadens its scope to include other speech impairments.
Uhura faces competition in the quest to provide innovative solutions for those who have lost their voices, with companies like Atos Medical and newer startups such as Laronix in the field.
Nevertheless, Zieliński is confident that Whitney will strike a chord with other laryngectomees. He plans to showcase its features not only at the tech conference but also at an upcoming tech week event in San Francisco, where he will perform live, aided by Whitney.
Be sure to join us next month to experience Bionics firsthand, alongside other competitors in our Battlefield lineup.
