TCL launch first portable projector doubles as a Bluetooth speaker

TCL, the brand that breaks all the rules with its big screens, is opening up a new footprint into home cinema with a product called the Projector A1. This is the brand’s foray into the portable projector market, and it’s bringing something different: portability, performance, and design.

The Projector A1 has a sleek compact design from a plethora of very crowded portable projector space. Its slender body bears a fashionably two-tone blue and black color scheme, accented with an integrated silvery metal handle that does not only serve as a carry feature but also turns into a stand to support the projecting for optimal angles. The light through the animated display on its sides further dresses up the projector’s design in a dynamic flair. There are two 8W stereo speakers on both the front and rear edges, disguised by a grille, that output 16W total sound level. The Projector A1 from TCL is also fitted with Bluetooth streaming, a bass boost function, and several sound presets such as Movie, Music, Standard, AI Audio, and Sport.

The A1’s projector system is based on a full HD resolution LCD optical setup that utilizes LEDs to produce up to 360 ISO Lumens of peak brightness. Although this level is par for the course in portable projectors, the claims of TCL propose that its Projector A1 can present crisp and sharp images within an image size from 45 inches and above to 120 inches. However, on the 360 ISO Lumens aspect, at the largest size (120 inches), it’s likely the image quality will be hampered by lower brightness levels when compared with a well-lit environment. But again, the ability to project these large-scale images puts the A1 directly at a competitive advantage with much more massive home theater setups while at least offering an experience far beyond what TCL’s massive 85-inch and larger TVs can offer.

The most notable feature of the Projector A1 is its advanced auto setup system. It has made movie nights much easier to start. Once set up, the A1 automatically adjusts focus, keystone correction, and screen alignment-no manual fine-tuning of any sort. The plug-and-play functionality is such that users can put the projector at any position anywhere – either on the table, ceiling mount, or rear wall – and the projector will self-correct to produce a straight-edged image. The A1 is flexible in its orientation so that it can be used front or rear-facingly, but also on a ceiling mount.

The Projector A1 is built with in-built Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.1 support, allowing wireless connection with smartphones, tablets, or other Bluetooth-enabled devices. The smart system running through Google TV will allow access to a whole host of streaming services and seamless Chromecast, along with voice control through Google Assistant through an included remote. The projector has the ability to connect other devices through an HDMI port, a USB port, and an auxiliary output.

Beyond its exceptional movie and music play, the Projector A1 has a low latency game mode, so it is very great for gaming enthusiasts who could be able to play games on a larger screen. Whether indoors or outdoors, the A1 is built for maximum versatility. The projector ships with a protective carry case so that whatever the outdoor conditions, the projector is easy to transport and can cut up rough outside use.

The Projector A1 is priced at $499 and available now, making it an affordable option for those looking for a portable, high-quality projection solution. Combining features, performance, and portability, the A1 represents TCL’s ambitious entry into the portable projector market with the promise of delivering to users an unforgettable top-tier viewing experience from the comfort of the home to the backyard or while roaming freely.

source: Forbes