It's vape, kazoo! No, it's a Zefiro. Italian company Artinoise has created a unique USB-C attachment for smartphones that turns your phone into a playable musical instrument. At first glance, the Zefiro looks like a kazoo or a flash drive. However, by blowing into the unattached end, one can simulate a musical instrument.

Zefiro is not yet available for sale and has just launched a Kickstarter campaign with a rather small goal of $5,322. As of this writing, with 30 days remaining, Artinoise has surpassed this goal and is currently showing a pledge of over $20,000. Assuming that it will actually be released, it appears to be on track.

The company states in its campaign, “We have been developing and building instruments for years.”

The company has posted that.

The device works by harnessing the “power of your breath,” which is then converted into various instrumental sounds by the Zefiro app. The app is compatible with iOS and Android and is customizable, allowing you to change the position and response of the buttons to play the notes on the screen. The app allows users to record and share the tracks they create and has an optional background track.

In addition to being a smart lead, Zefiro is also a MIDI breath controller. This means it can be used to trigger samples or control virtual instruments, and according to Artinoise, can be integrated into home studios or professional setups. Think of it as a tool that allows you to add sound effects to your performance, sort of like mid-song editing, although it is unknown if Zefiro will offer similar customization and control. It should work with MIDI-compatible music software, though.

Interested parties can purchase the Zefiro for 22 euros (about $24); Artinoise says the regular retail price will almost double to 42 euros (about $45). A “pro” model with an additional accelerometer sensor will also be available for 39 euros (about $42). The company will also sell a “headset holder,” similar to the one used to hold a harmonica. When connected to the headset, the user can play another instrument along with Zefiro.

This is not the first digital forward instrument released by Artinoise. Their previous project was the Re.Corder, an updated version of the classic school wind instrument. It synthesizes the recorder's sound via Bluetooth and the instrument's pressure sensor. Some reviewers say that the recorder can now participate in band performances without being drowned out by other instruments. Whether you want that or are bothered by the squealing of a third grader during practice is a matter between you and your God.

The company expects to ship in February 2025.