LG has announced an initial release date for its new facemask, which includes a built-in air purifier with three fans and a HEPA-style filter. The device is set to arrive in Thailand this August, according to Engadget, which also reports that LG has yet to share a price for the mask. While LG originally unveiled the device in August 2020, it’s just now bringing the finalized version to market, and it’s adding some upgrades to the final model. In the updated version, LG has added a built-in microphone, as well as a speaker and voice amplifier. This is made possible by the mask’s “VoiceOn” tech, which LG says will automatically recognize when you are speaking. It can then boost the sound coming from the speaker to help people hear you more clearly. LG also has updated the motor, to include a smaller and lighter variant from the original design in the first mask that it showed off. The idea behind the new design, the company says, is to make it easier for wearers to communicate with those around them. Additionally, LG has upgraded the battery to a 1,000 mAh battery compared to the original 820 mAh and it should run around eight hours, according to LG. The company also says that it only takes two hours to recharge using the included USB cable. At the moment, the PuriCare Wearable Air Purifier is only set to release in Thailand in August. However, LG has plans to ship it to other regions as it is approved by regulators.
