The Mirror Company

Introduction

The Mirror is a standard-issue personal device used by all Uphor citizens. It serves as an identity document, access pass, payment method, and secure communication tool. Manufactured and distributed by The Mirror Company, the current model, M7, is a semi-transparent, glass-based slab calibrated uniquely to each user’s eyes and biometrics.

History

The first versions of the Mirror were developed hundreds of years before the formation of Uphor. Initially a product of a branded tech company during the pre-collapse era, the “Mirror” became synonymous with secure digital identity and daily access. After the collapse, the technology was revived and reorganized under public control. The current institution known as The Mirror Company retains the original name.

The Company Now

The Mirror Company operates under public contract, with heavy oversight and funding from the state. While technically an independent organization, it is expected to meet standards and coordinate closely with other services (e.g. transit, housing, payment systems).

Core services like identification and key access are handled internally. Other functions — such as medical data, Nex ticketing, education, or secure messaging, are outsourced to independent service providers to maintain citizen privacy.

Though generally seen as a reliable utility, the company occasionally faces scrutiny over data handling practices. These concerns are addressed via third-party audits and transparency protocols.

Receiving Your Mirror

All citizens receive their first full Mirror at age 14, following biometric registration at a Mirror Center. The device is then linked to them permanently, and replaces their childhood Mirror Lite device. Mirror Lites have limited features and are not eye-calibrated.

Upgrades are available for free every 5–10 years if the previous device is returned. Though alternate and higher-end models exist, they are not widely used. Most citizens rely on the standard Mirror, which is sufficient for all basic needs.

Work Culture

The Mirror Company maintains a quiet reputation. It does not advertise or promote new models. Internal culture is highly technical and administrative, focused on public compliance, privacy protection, and long-term reliability. Most workers are engineers, programmers, or interface technicians.

Monetisation and Product Lines

The standard Mirror (M7) is issued for free. It is funded by the public sector and subsidized through service contracts with other institutions. Higher-end devices exist, offering enhanced optics, memory, or developer tools, but these are niche and rarely encountered in public life. There is no fashion culture or trend cycle surrounding Mirrors.