Never disappointed with crazy designs, Razer unveiled a seriously smart face mask at CES 2021. And with everything that’s going on in the world, it may even be more attractive than its convertible gaming chair concept, ‘Project Brooklyn’.
Although aesthetics is not a success for everyone, before making any rash judgments about this medical wear with RGB injection, you should know that every part of the design has an important role to play – even cool lighting.
The mask is an N95-grade surgical facial coating made from recycled materials, which aligns with Razer’s sustainability philosophy (check out the collaboration between Razer and Conservation International for more information). To reduce the waste created by disposable masks, the Razer mask uses replaceable and rechargeable disc fans. The mask carrying case also acts as a cargo box and has an ultraviolet disinfectant light that promises to kill any bacteria.
RGB lighting in the mask will indicate low power levels or warn you when the filter needs to be replaced, although you can turn off the lighting if you prefer. The mask is also waterproof, scratch-proof and fits on the face, thanks to a silicone lining that forms a seal to prevent the flow of harmful air. The tight fit will be a blessing to any spectacle wearer out there, who may have seen the world through a haze for many months, as it must prevent hot air from escaping upwards.
The smartest mask in the world
The clear design of the face panel was purposely included for better socialization and to help those who need lip reading for assisted communication. You no longer need to raise your eyebrows at the old lady at the supermarket to let her know that you are smiling (even though she may be frightened by the futuristic mask itself).
The mask also includes built-in lights to gently illuminate your face during low light, so you can still use the mask effectively outside the day. Razer is also patenting its ‘Razer Voiceamp Technology’, which prevents the mask seal from muffling your voice using a built-in microphone and amplifier to give your speech crystal clarity.
Although the design has working prototypes, Razer has made it clear that Project Hazel is a work in progress and will continue to be optimized with the help of community feedback. At the moment, there is no mention of when we can expect to see the mask hit the shelves or an estimated retail price, but if social media feedback is any indication, it may be a popular product.
Razer dedicated a lot of manufacturing space in 2020 to help during the pandemic and donated one million disposable masks to frontline employees to fight the shortage. It also launched its own line of reusable cloth masks. Razer’s efforts to keep fans healthy and safe shouldn’t come as a surprise, even though cyberpunk design has caused so much online conversation.
Project Hazel is extremely identifiable as a Razer product and is sure to be a hit with tech and streetwear fans. Design may not appeal to everyone, but with such an uncertain future ahead, emerging concepts for more sustainable medical-grade facial masks can make the transition to a ‘new normal’ a little easier.
- Check out all TechRadar’s CES 2021 roof. We are remotely covering the program online only to bring you all the latest technology news and releases, as well as a handful of practical reviews.