Gaming specialist Razer has unveiled what it claims is the “smartest mask in the world” for protection against the coronavirus. The company, which produces mice, keyboards, and headsets for gamers, announced in May 2020 that it would donate one million masks to hospitals worldwide to support Covid-19 measures. During the Consumer Electronics Show 2021 (CES), Razer introduced a self-developed respiratory mask. According to Razer, the concept, called Project Hazel, is the “smartest mask in the world.” The filter performance is said to meet the N95 standard, filtering out at least 95% of particles larger than 0.3 micrometers from the air. This is also said to protect against the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. The mask is expected to receive an FFP2 certification.
The Razer mask is particularly impressive due to its technical features. The mask includes active ventilation with replaceable air filters. To prevent unfiltered air from entering, the mask is sealed with silicone around the edges. Despite this, conversations are still possible because Razer has installed a microphone-speaker combination that records the wearer’s voice and amplifies it through the speakers. Additionally, the transparent mask has integrated lighting that makes social contacts easier in the dark. As is typical with many gaming products, the user can freely choose the color of the lighting. According to Razer, one battery charge is sufficient for one day of use of the active ventilation and lighting. The mask is charged in a charging case that sterilizes it with integrated UV light. According to Razer, existing bacteria and viruses are killed in this way.
The Project Hazel is still in development, and Razer has not yet announced when or at what price the mask will be available on the market. However, the mask’s innovative features and high-quality filtration make it a promising addition to the range of protective equipment available to the public.
