As society emerges from the coronavirus pandemic, Will.i.am is betting that people will continue to use those protective gear, such as face covers.
The rapper and entrepreneur announced on Tuesday that he is releasing two versions of a high-tech face mask called the Xupermask with Honeywell. According to Will.i.am. the mask combines protection, design and usability in one product.
The founder of the Black Eyed Peas suggested the masks, which go on sale on Wednesday, would be valuable to consumers, just as a pair of Air Jordan shoes are for sneakerheads.
“We looked at shoes as protective gear a long time ago, but they’re just cultural items we’re going to buy,” Will.i.am told CNBC’s Jim Cramer in a “Mad Money” interview. “The mask should have the same kind of attention to detail, love and care, where you don’t compromise on aesthetics to keep yourself and other people safe.”
The mask is also intended to make breathing through a cover easy. That’s where John Waldron and his team at Honeywell come in to supply HEPA filters. Waldron is CEO of Honeywell’s safety and productivity solutions division.
“This particular Xupermask has a very unique patented filter design, which we are very proud of and that provides premium filtration without sacrificing usability or fashion,” he said. “I think we’ve tried to combine the best of both worlds.”
will.i.am introduces innovative facial technology concept, XUPERMASK
Source: Honeywell
The Xupermask retails for $ 299, and Will.i.am says the value lies in the functionalities and fashion features of the protective technology. It is embedded with features such as LED lights, 3-speed fans, and noise canceling headphones that try to resolve a list of complaints that make facial coverage uncomfortable for many people.
Will.i.am described the masks as the inspiration for the “futuristic sci-fi movie,” brought by designer Jose Fernandez, the creative artist at Ironhead Studio behind mask designs for Spiderman, Black Panther and Tron.
“I think people will continue to wear masks and [if] masks like the Xupermask have other functionality, I think you’re going to do that [be] giving people an option, ”said Will.i.am.