What Created the Need for ZipIt Devices?
| The FAA and FCC recently upheld a ban on the use of cell phones during flight due to a minor technological interference discovered during tests between normal cell phone frequencies and power levels and the typical GPS navigation systems used on board planes in the US. The reality was the FCC and FAA saw the huge public outcry over the consideration of allowing cell phones during flight from the majority of people who feel too uncomfortable at the thought of being forced to listen to a one-sided phone conversation in such a confined space, that the agencies greatly exaggerated the GPS concern. These agencies had no jurisdiction over the social aspects of cell phones in flight, and used the GPS minor interference to uphold the ban. Luckily, these agencies also left the door open for any single airline to petition the ban on an individual basis, if they can prove they can avoid the GPS equipment interference, which should be an easy workaround for any large airline. Just the introduction of a ZipIt device to the public would motivate airlines - who are always looking for ways to generate more revenue - to consider petitioning the ban and implementing a rule that cell phones could be used during their flights but that the callers must use a ZipIt-like device as the airlines are ultimately responsible for keeping the peace onboard planes during flight.
Internationally, there is a different story. Many airlines that operate in Europe and Asia have already outfitted their airplanes with equipment from companies like AirCell, AeroMobile, and OnAir that enable cell phone use during flight, and the government agencies that regulate these air spaces have given several companies permission to move forward with cell phones during flight. Ryanair alone (the Southwest Airlines of Europe) has started outfitting all their 400 Boeing 737s with this capability, and more will follow. Furthermore, after people in Europe become accustomed to this service, the pressure on airline companies and consumers in the US will be too great for the FCC and FAA to continue with their ban.
The first generation basic ZipIt device and future generations of ZipIt devices also are useful for workers at loud construction sites, for travelers stuck in the airport waiting for delayed flights or waiting in line to board the plane, and workers in a call center. They are useful in any environment when someone needs to have a phone conversation in a loud or windy place, or when they are forced to be in close proximity to other people, and when someone needs privacy while making a cell phone call. The device blocks out a substantial amount of ambient background noise and wind so the call receiver can hear their caller and be heard.
ZipIt Incorporated has US and International patents pending on these devices. They are intended to be very inexpensive and low technology devices, yet their designs are innovative, “sexy” (think iPod), extremely useful, and non-obvious. The devices fit universally around any cell phone and allow callers to speak freely, but keep their conversation from reaching call neighbors. The lightweight devices collapse into a minimal small total space volume for easy storage and transportation.
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How Do the Devices Work?
 | ZipIt devices are shaped like an elongated plastic bowl that universally fits around any mobile, desk, or earpiece phone. They extend from ear to mouth, allowing the caller to speak freely into it like a megaphone to the call receiver, while keeping the sound from reaching any call neighbors. The devices are constructed much like the tail of a lobster – wider at the top next to the caller's ear, and tapering thinner toward the mouth; the interconnecting hinges allow the device to universally adapt to head size, and provides a clever way to collapse the device into its smallest possible volume for storage and transportation. |
Who Needs the Devices?
 | Primary users of ZipIt devices are in two venues: cubicle office environment and airplanes. Cubicle Office Environment: Airplanes: Airlines will provide these devices to passengers as a means to make airline flights more productive, while considering those who are in the vicinity of someone on a phone call. This device may become as common as pillows and blankets on all airlines. Telecommunication Companies world wide will purchase mass quantities of these inexpensive devices and freely give them away to their mobile phone customers as a way to encourage customers to use more service plan minutes during prime time hours, specifically during flights. Travelers will want to purchase this device for their exclusive use, particularly if it is not available yet from their phone service or airline.
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