Can't Wait For Razer's Project Hazel? Buy Will.i.am's Xupermask Instead
Following Razer’s Project Hazel announcement, will.i.am and Honeywell have partnered up to release a tech-focused face mask to help in the fight against the spread of COVID-19. However, unlike Project Hazel, will.i.am’s Xupermask already has a release date and a price tag, albeit one that’s pretty high compared to what most people probably pay for protection.
Razer announced its Project Hazel face mask back in January and it immediately attracted major interest, due to its somewhat unorthodox look and use of tech features, including LED lights and a microphone. However, it was only announced as a concept with no firm information on if it will be released, let alone when or for how much. Although not much has changed since then, the company has confirmed it will, at some point, release a version of Project Hazel.
Until then, will.i.am and Honeywell are offering their Xupermask face mask. Similar to Project Hazel, Xupermask also comes with a less than typical look and design. Also like Razer’s face mask, Xupermask adds some technology to the mask-wearing experience, thanks to the inclusion of LED lights and a microphone, This is in addition to multi-function buttons and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, the latter of which is powered by a Qualcomm QCC5124 chip. As to be expected, many of the features are powered by a battery. According to the press release, the battery is rated to last up to seven hours and the “mask can be worn while charging.”
For those considering picking one of these masks up, the Xupermask is due to go on sale on April 8. The Xupermask will cost $299 and is available in either a small-medium or a medium-large size. In addition to the two sizes, the Xupermask is also available to buy in a white and grey with orange color option or in a black with orange. It is worth noting that the press release suggests stock might be an issue with the first “drop” releasing on April 8. Likewise, worldwide availability will also be an issue for some, with only residents in the U.S., Canada, the UK and the EU available to purchase for now.
At $299, this is going to be an expensive face mask and especially as it arrives at a time when vaccinations are becoming more readily available. However, and while lockdown orders are beginning to lift, many are still being encouraged to wear face masks for the foreseeable future. Therefore, the $299 Xupermask price might not be that bad for anyone who is in the market for a face mask that not only meets recommended guidelines, but does so “without compromising style.”
Source: Honeywell