Modern problems require modern (and preferably fashionable) solutions. Music producer, tech entrepreneur and philanthropist will.i.am, in partnership with pioneering manufacturing and technology leader Honeywell, has introduced XUPERMASK, where the common face mask takes on a smarter, more stylish persona. The tech imbued XUPERMASK owes its edge to its myriad built-in functions such as a microphone and noise-cancelling Bluetooth 5.0 earbuds that clip magnetically onto the mask when not in use, apart from its main purpose of reducing the spread of the coronavirus contagion. Let’s get it started, shall we?

Best known for being the frontman and co-founder of American music group Black Eyed Peas, will.i.am also partnered with Hollywood costume designer, Jose Fernandez, who has created iconic costumes such as Thanos’ makeup and helmet in the Avengers multiverse and the gold and silver helmets for famous French electronic music duo Daft Punk.

The multifaceted product design creates a new category of its own among the N-95’s, surgical and luxury ones. According to the XUPERMASK team, the mask equips its wearer for the “mid and post-pandemic world via wearable technology, created ergonomically to fit, and enhanced with multiple functions for the modern lifestyle”.  

At a time when face masks have become a necessity in our wardrobe, will.i.am shares that he created this tech integrated one to change the game of the new normal, embrace its function but make it fashion. “In this new age of style and security, XUPERMASK is uncompromising protection with high-tech performance for the modern lifestyle. Alongside Honeywell, we have engineered the accessory with state-of-the-art breathing filtration,” says the Grammy Award-winning musician.

The most common issue encountered while wearing surgical masks was of glasses fogging up (will.i.am has got your back, fellow spectacle wearers), as well as earphones getting in the way, or muffled voices over a phone call or the massive amounts of plastic pollution because of discarded masks. XUPERMASK offers itself as a one-stop solution to all this, with its integrated features such as dual 3-speed fans and replaceable HEPA filters for enhanced breathability, paired with LED day glow lights for a neon, cyberpunk aesthetic, and a built-in microphone.

Created in colourways of black/black/orange and white/grey/orange, XUPERMASK comes in two sizes and is made of silicone face seals and elastic straps for comfort, that can be adjusted easily, and be worn for up to a year. Powered by a seven-hour battery, it also comes with a XUPERKIT that contains a carrying case, three-month supply of HEPA filters, multi-size ear tips, USB-C charging cable, and a fabric mask. With an external charging port, the mask can also be worn while it is being charged.

“XUPERMASK offers wearers cutting-edge design and functionality. Its blend of fashion, technology and function is unparalleled. We are proud to have partnered with will.i.am on this unique and innovative project,” says Darius Adamczyk, chairman and chief executive officer of Honeywell.

What do you think of this $299 XUPERMASK? Might as well don a face mask and look uber cool wearing it, right?

02 mins watch