LG has announced a new battery-powered face mask, which the tech giant describes as a “wearable air purifier”.
The device, called the PuriCare Wearable Air Purifier, allows the person wearing it to breathe in clean air both inside and outside.
With a battery life of eight hours on a single charge, the design features two H13 HEPA filters – similar to those found in home air-purifying products. These filters can capture 99.97% of particles in the air.
The mask comes with a case that contains UV-LED lights that have the ability to kill germs. Pic: LG
The mask also has dual fans, and patented respiratory sensors can adjust the speed of these so that they match the breathing speed of the user.
The storage case provided contains UV-LED lights that have the ability to kill germs. The case also sends alerts to an app to let users know when the filters need to be replaced.
The tech firm is pitching the air purifier as an alternative to homemade masks, which vary in quality, and disposable masks that have often been in short supply during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The company has not offered specifics on just how effective the device is at preventing the spread of coronavirus, however it said it would deliver “meaningful” health benefits.
LG president Dan Song said: “The PuriCare Wearable Air Purifier is an exciting addition to our growing line-up of products designed to deliver meaningful health and hygiene benefits.
“At a time when consumers are seeking ways to make life safer and more convenient, it’s important that we’re able to offer solutions that add measurable value.”
The mask will be showcased at technology trade show IFA in Berlin next month.
A price and release date has not yet been confirmed.