LG's smart mask that can be linked with smartphones is thin and lightweight, making it comfortable to wear

Masks are now a daily necessity, but several manufacturers have commercialized "smart masks" that have a built-in electric fan that allows you to check the usage status from your smartphone. LG, which develops air care products such as air purifiers under the “LG PuriCare” brand, will release the smart mask “LG Wearable AirPurifer” in the fall of 2020. In the fall of 2021, we released a lighter second-generation model. The price is 1,480 Hong Kong dollars, or about 22,000 yen, in Hong Kong, where the author lives.

The LG Wearable AirPurifer looks like an ordinary mask made thicker. The main body is available in two colors: clean white and black that goes well with chic clothes.

The original model was quite large and weighed 126g, but the latest model is thinner and weighs 94g. I've actually tried wearing it myself, but I felt that the first model was a little heavy and it was a bit difficult to leave it on for a long time. However, the latest model is lighter and thinner, so it doesn't get in the way when you wear it.

The internal structure has a washable face guard made of soft material on the part that hits the mouth and nose, and a filter called an inner guard is attached inside. The inner guard needs to be replaced every day because it is the part that breathes directly from the mouth and nose.

There are also built-in electric fans on the left and right sides of the main unit that draw in outside air, and each fan is equipped with a square comb-shaped HEPA filter. This filter is available for 1 month. As for running costs, the inner guard is 98 Hong Kong dollars (about 1,400 yen) for 30 pieces, and the HEPA filter is the same price, so it will cost about 2,800 yen per month.

The main unit has a built-in 10,000mAh battery that can be used for 8 to 10 hours. However, if it is only this function, it is just an "electric intake mask". Wearable AirPurifer is equipped with "VoiceON" function. The problem with wearing a normal mask or a similar smart mask is that if you try to speak while wearing the mask, your voice will become softer and harder to hear. In particular, smart masks cover the mouth tightly, so even if you speak normally, your voice will be muffled and difficult to hear.

When you press the VoiceON button on the Wearable AirPurifer, the microphone inside the main unit picks up your voice and outputs the sound from the speaker on the bottom right of the main unit. Even when talking in a noisy place or participating in a video conference while wearing a mask, you can use this function to have a clear conversation. It seems to be a convenient function for people who need masks for work such as customer service.

And by connecting the main unit and smartphone via Bluetooth, it is also possible to monitor the usage time of the mask. Even if you wear the Wearable AirPurifer on your face when you go out, there will be times when you take it off when you get to the office, so you can check how much time you actually use in a day with the app. The amount of air intake is also displayed in liters, so you can also know how much air you are breathing in a day through the mask.

In addition, a case-type cradle that can UV sterilize the entire main unit is also available (sold separately). Wearable AirPurifer can be charged with a USB Type-C terminal, but this cradle can be charged just by placing it inside. This is 1,150 Hong Kong dollars, about 17,000 yen. A full set will cost you a lot of money, but it will give you peace of mind for those who are worried about disposable masks or who have to wear masks for work.

Some smart masks have already been sold overseas. Among them, Razer's "Razer Zephyr", which develops gaming PCs, is attracting attention. Like Razer, it shines with lighting, and while the filter part is designed to stand out, the mouth is made of transparent material so that it can be seen. The design is a little too flashy for everyday use, but it may become a fashion item that gamers use at game competitions and arcades. It is scheduled to be sold in Japan for 12,800 yen.

The day will come when we no longer need to wear masks, but smart masks can also be used to combat hay fever and allergies. As a life care product that makes daily life more comfortable, smart masks are expected to continue to produce new products one after another.