At the beginning of the pandemic, when there was a shortage of masks around the world, many digital players decided to make protective equipment against the coronavirus. For example, Apple has started making protective visors for health care workers. We can also find tutorials on the internet on creating reusable masks to be 3D printed.
For its part, Razer, specialist in playground equipment, has started making masks. “This emergency switch of some of our production lines and the mask donation is the first step in many of the actions Razer will be taking. We are determined to use our time, resources, efforts and talents to fight the COVID-19 virus. “the company said in March.
Razer presents its mask of the future
And in early 2021, during CES 2021 (virtual), Razer introduced a futuristic mask concept called Project Hazel. “Since the outbreak of the pandemic, Razer has been active in the fight against COVID-19, including converting its manufacturing facilities to certified medical masks and donating one million surgical masks to the health front line as part of the Razer Health Initiative.”Razer remembers today.
“Razer’s Hazel Multi-Purpose Smart Mask project is a natural evolution of this initiative, addressing an increased focus on hygiene and exposure to unexpected health risks and the environmental issues of disposable masks, while improving the characteristics of a reusable personal protective mask”states the company.
An N95 mask with a fan and microphone
First off, Razer says the Hazel mask offers N95-grade respiratory protection. The company states that its highly efficient bacteria filtration system, “Smart Pods”, filters at least 95% of the particles in the air. To optimize the breathability of this mask, Razer has equipped it with a rechargeable fan.
If you love the cyberpunk aesthetic, the Razer Hazel Protective Mask is for you https://t.co/kJ3kZGmY2b pic.twitter.com/Vsjy6UTq1X
– Chloé Woitier @ (@W_Chloe) January 13, 2021
To make interaction easier when the user wears this mask, it has a transparent design that can be used to make facial expressions visible. The mask also has interior lights that allow the wearer to show their facial expression even in the dark.
I’ll take the Hazel Mask Razer 👀🔥 pic.twitter.com/O63zNQJlOD
– Ians technology 📱 (@IansTechYT) January 12, 2021
And since wearing the mask can mute the user’s voice, the Hazel mask is also equipped with a microphone and a voice amplifier. Compared to traditional masks, Project Hazel essentially offers something that feels straight out of the future.
Right now this is just a concept
Unfortunately this is just a concept at the moment. Razer said the Hazel glasses will continue to be optimized through rigorous testing and user feedback to ensure standards are met and comfort is improved. Design changes are also planned by the company.
In addition, it is not currently known when this mask will be available on the market. “Razer recognizes the uncertainty as we move forward, so it has been our duty to protect our community and prepare them for invisible threats.”said Min-Liang Tan, co-founder and CEO of Razer. “Project Hazel’s Smart Mask concept is functional but comfortable and useful for interacting with the world while maintaining a sociable aesthetic. “”