A FACE mask modelled on your own nose and mouth is being advertised online - and its creator claims it will unlock your phone.

San Francisco start-up 'Resting Risk Face' says it is working on a ‘face recognition respirator face mask’.

Its website describes the product – which is not yet for sale – as a ‘surgical mask that looks just like you’, which can unlock your device.

Messenger Newspapers:

Pics. restingriskface.com

It's being advertised here at restingriskface.com

Yet some commentators have been quick to point out that the satirical product may not actually be for real. 

The descriptions says: “Our masks are custom printed with your face making phone access easy during viral epidemics.”

How does it work?

First, you upload a picture of your face using an app.

Then, once you’ve tweaked it, the company claims it will print the image onto a mask  before sending it out.

Here’s the explanation: “After uploading your face, we use computational mapping to convert your facial features into an image printed onto the surface of N95 surgical masks without distortion.

“Our printer uses inks made of natural dyes. It's non-toxic and doesn't affect breathability.

“You can use your mask for everyday life as a barrier for airborne particle droplets.”

Is it a joke?

In the words of Resting Risk Face, “Yes. No. We're not sure. Viruses are not a joke.”

The product is ‘still in development’, and the website allows users to sign up for news on the launch.

However, the sardonic tone of the product’s description suggests all may not be as it seems.

The site says: “If you enjoy late stage capitalism, facial recognition respirator masks will retail for $40 per mask. They are still in development."

Gizmodo Australia, one of the first to report on the mask, has described the mask as a 'satirical product',

Its report says: "You can tell it's satirical by the fact that it's not actually available to buy (ostensibly until the global mask shortage is over, but when that happens it'll probably be because the health scare is also over)."

Messenger Newspapers:

Can I get one?

No, or not yet anyway. And it seems unlikely it might be anytime soon, given the global shortage of masks.

Its creators say: “We will not be making these while there's still a global mask shortage.”