Project Hazel it started as a concept to explore how technology could improve the traditional face mask, but now Razer takes that idea and turns it into something you can really buy by turning Project Hazel into a real product.
Razer CEO Min-Liang Tan confirmed the move to turn Project Hazel into a suitable commercial device during an interview with Yahoo Finance, saying, “We’ve noticed that even with the vaccines we’re hearing, you still need to be masked because there is still the risk factor that, even if you are vaccinated, you need to be very careful. “
Tan also added that while many countries have been able to acquire covid-19 vaccines for their residents, people from other regions or countries may not be able to access the vaccine for another year or two. Also, in places like Asia where wearing a mask was already quite common even before hitting the covid-19, Razer’s most substantial masks would seem to offer a more permanent solution to typical disposable paper masks or even to reusable fabric alternatives.
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Although Razer has not yet set a price or official release date for its mask, Project Hazel (or what ends up being the final name) is expected to include a clear clear plastic case with built-in replaceable N95 filters on either side, along with built-in lighting to help brighten your face in the dark and Razer’s VoiceAmp technology to make sure people listen to your speech loud and clear.
Finally, in addition to the replaceable N95 filters, Project Hazel is also expected to include a rechargeable disinfection case that uses UV light to disinfect the mask and recharge the mask’s built-in battery between uses. Oh, and since it’s a Razer product, Project Hazel also includes support for Chroma RGB, so you can change the lights on the outside of the mask to suit your mood.
In the end, even if you think the idea of a smart face mask is nonsense, Razer is committed to turning Project Hazel into a real product, it’s one more sign of how the pandemic continues remodel what people consider normal. And even after a large part of the population is vaccinated, the desire for more substantial protection against airborne diseases seems quite prudent, although I still don’t feel the need to make the outside of the mask.