PC gamers love their RGB lighting. But what if you could get the same lighting on a facial mask?
Razer is tinkering with the idea via a prototype smart mask for gamers that includes the neon lighting. Dubbed Project Hazel and debuting at CES, the mask contains two customizable “Razer Chroma” RGB lighting zones on each ventilator that can offer 16.8 million colors along with other lighting effects.
However, the mask isn’t designed just to look cool. Project Hazel has also been outfitted with N95-medical grade respirators and special “Smart Pods” designed to regulate air flow and filter out airborne germs.
The ventilators on the mask can also be pulled out and “recharged” by placing them inside a bundled wireless fast charging box, which will also disinfect them with UV light. A full charge should get you a full day of mask use, the company says.
Another feature is the transparent plastic surface that allows people to still see you smile or laugh even when you’re covered up. There’s also some interior lighting inside the mask, which can automatically activate in the dark.
“In addition, because masks can also muffle voices, a new Razer VoiceAmp Technology (patent pending) uses a built-in microphone and amplifier to enhance the user’s speech for clear communication while staying safe in social situations,” the company says.
Although a COVID-19 vaccine is rolling out around the globe, Razer still sees a potential market for facial masks into the future. “Razer acknowledges the uncertainty in the road ahead, and so it was our duty to help protect our community members and prepare them from invisible threats,” says CEO Min-Liang Tan.
Of course, a cloth or surgical mask is much cheaper, and it doesn't require batteries to power any RGB lighting. But with Project Hazel, you get a mask that’s been designed to last over the long term. There’s no word on pricing, or if it’ll ever become a real product. However, the company plans on testing the prototype and soliciting user feedback.