So, now even the projector manufacturers are weighing in on the IoT (Internet of Things) and the voice control craze of this year’s CES, with Optoma’s announcement that it will now integrate large screen projection into the Alexa ecosystem. The company will also be introducing a ‘fully mobile’ 1080P HD projector with 1,300 lumens LED light source, new 4K UHD models, and a 2-hour battery life pocket projector.
But one of the projectors that will almost certainly excite readers here the most is the UHD51A 4K UHD model. It includes Amazon Alexa Smart Home and Custom Skills to allow the projector to align with speakers, screen and lighting. It also boasts 2,400 lumens, 500,000:1 contrast ratio (claimed), and HDR10 with Rec.2020 and DCI-P3 color gamut. With 60Hz refresh rates for gamers, and the prerequisite HDCP2.2 and two HDMI 2.0 inputs, this projector looks like it might see some serious uptake, with its not unfriendly price tag of $1,699.
Other projectors in the new line include the following:
- Optoma UHD50: On the heels of the launch of Optoma’s first 4K resolution projectors priced under $2,000 this past Fall, Optoma is leveraging the latest TI DLP technology to deliver the next-generation 4K UHD home theater projector in 2018. Like the Optoma UHD51A, it features 2,400 lumens and a 500,000:1 contrast ratio, along with an RGBRGB color wheel and HDR10 with Rec.2020/DCPI-3 wide color gamut and two HDMI 2.0 inputs with HDCP 2.2 support. The Optoma UHD50 will be available at Amazon, BestBuy.com and Fry’s Electronics for an estimated street price of $1,499.
- Optoma LH150: Optoma delivers a completely mobile 1080p HD resolution, 1,300 lumen LED projector with battery pack for just $899. With 40,000:1 contrast ratio, multiple HDMI and USB ports and dual integrated speakers, along with WiFi and Bluetooth 4.0 output, this projector is a true mainstream market product. The inclusion of a battery back means consumers can provide a jaw-dropping entertainment experience in their yards, on camping trips or nearly anywhere else with complete ease. It will be available for purchase in Q2.
- Optoma 4K UHD HDR Laser UST: This projector packs in all of the latest home theater innovations for an incredible cinematic experience, with 4K UHD resolution, a laser light source and an ultra short throw. With 2,300 lumens, a 2,000,000:1 contrast ratio, HDR-compatibility and 0.25 throw, providing a 100-inch image from just 8-inches away, it will provide a stunning visual experience, with a small footprint. This projector is expected to make its appearance in Q2 with a target price point of $4,999, mapping to Optoma’s continued vision for premium quality products at mainstream pricing.
- Optoma LED Pocket Projector: This ultra portable pocket projector delivers great performance in a tiny package. With WVGA (854×480) resolution and 300 lumens, it features a .2 LED RGB light source with a lifetime of 20,000 hours, HDMI port with MHL, and 2+ hours of battery life in eco-mode. Weighing in at less than 12 oz., it has a miniscule form factor of approximately 3 inches by 4.5 inches and just over 1 inch height. It is scheduled to be on the market in Q2, with a target street price of $279.
“Optoma is continually focused on introducing more innovations to the home theater space, with everything from resolution and light sources, to form factor, features and mobility – and now voice integration – to simplify the experience for consumers and deliver and inch-for-inch entertainment experience that TVs simply can’t match,” said Brian Soto, head of product management at Optoma Technology. “With smart home adoption on the rise, consumers are looking at non-traditional technology options that bring them a better entertainment experience, and Optoma home theater projection delivers this in spades.”
Optoma stresses that prices are subject to change, and if you’re Vegas-bound today or in the next couple of days, be aware that Optoma is showing off its new products by appointment only.
Martin, a seasoned journalist and AV expert, has written for several notable print magazines. He’s served in key roles at Lucasfilm’s THX Division, NEC’s digital cinema division, and has even consulted for DreamWorks. Despite his illustrious career, Martin remains rooted in his passion for cinema and acting, with notable appearances in several Spielberg films, Doctor Who, and Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back. He currently resides in San Francisco.
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