Razer is known for gaming equipment, but the manufacturer recently presented a mask concept at CES 2021. It also somehow looks like a video game.
What is this concept? On the occasion of CES 2021, Razer presented several items. The new gaming laptops, for example, or a futuristic concept of a gaming chair.
As unusual as the mentioned chair is, the new concept from Razer is also striking – a mask called “Project Hazel”. However, it does not look like the classic “mouth-nose protection,” but rather something you would wear in The Division 2.
This is Project Hazel
Why a mask? Project Hazel is a face mask that Razer designed as a response to the current pandemic. Razer has previously committed to this regard and intends to continue this with the new concept, according to a statement from the manufacturer: “This initiative will now continue with the reusable Project Hazel Smart Mask. The face mask meets higher hygiene standards and prevents unexpected health risks and environmental problems caused by disposable masks, while enhancing the properties of a reusable mask for personal protection.”
What is this “Smart Mask”? Besides the fact that “Project Hazel” looks like it came straight out of a video game, the self-proclaimed “World’s Smartest Mask” is also supposed to have some special features. Among other things, it is supposed to provide medical N95 respiratory protection, coming with rechargeable and removable fans. These so-called “Smart Pods” are supposed to filter out 95% of particles in the air.
To reuse it, they can be placed in a charging box where the fans are to be disinfected using UV light: “The water-repellent, scratch-resistant mask is as high-quality as it is sustainable – made from recyclable plastic to minimize the waste produced by disposable masks,” so the description.
What else can the mask do? It should also allow the clear design to show the wearer’s face. In the dark, a light should automatically turn on to enable facial expressions in all lighting conditions. The mask’s lighting should also be able to change colors freely, depending on which style you prefer.
But these are not the only technical components in the mask: There is also a voice amplifier, whose microphone picks up the wearer’s voice and plays it back directly. This is supposed to bypass the muffling of the voice.
As of now, the mask is only a prototype, and whether and when it will actually be available for purchase (and at what price) is still completely open.
What do you think of the project? An exciting development or more of a technical gimmick that belongs in games like “The Division”? Speaking of “The Division”: The creators of the game are now busy with a brand new project.
