Samsung just unveiled its 2023 TV lineup of Neo QLED 8K, OLED, sound devices and monitors at the Unbox & Discover virtual livestream!
Samsung Unveils 2023 QLED, OLED TVs + Monitors!
Samsung just unveiled its 2023 TV lineup of Neo QLED 8K, Samsung OLED, sound devices and monitors at the Unbox & Discover virtual livestream, which showcased its latest innovations in smart connectivity, sustainability initiatives, premium viewing, and gaming experiences.
According to Samsung, its 2023 lineup focused on enhancing the user experience by making complex technologies more intuitive and seamlessly integrated into people’s lives, while delivering impeccable picture and sound quality consumers expect from Samsung screens.
At Samsung, we understand that technology should empower and enhance people’s lives, not complicate them.
By choosing Samsung, consumers can expect to experience an unparalleled level of wow factors, all while participating in eco-conscious practices for a sustainable future.
– Jong-Hee (JH) Han, Vice Chairman, CEO and Head of DX (Device eXperience) Division at Samsung Electronics
In his opening remarks, JH Han underscored the company’s commitment to calm tech and innovation, providing consumers with the latest technologies that make life better. In particular, he introduced five core foundations of SmartThings, which aims to provide increased convenience when setting up their smart homes.
Instant Connection: SmartThings enables users to easily connect their devices in just one step, allowing them to enjoy the synergy created by Samsung devices more easily.
Automated Connection: SmartThings automatically connects devices, like TVs or smartphones, with other Samsung devices such as the air conditioner, dryer, refrigerator, and washer, eliminating the need for manual setup.
Hub Everywhere: The IoT hub is built into various Samsung products, including Samsung Smart TVs, making IoT setup a breeze.
Expansive Compatibility: SmartThings goes beyond just the Samsung ecosystem, enabling devices from any brand to work seamlessly together thanks to the Home Connectivity Alliance and the international IoT communication standard, MATTER.
Security: With CC EAL 6+ certification, the new Samsung Knox Vault hardware chip encrypts all information from connected devices, ensuring the highest level of security and offering peace of mind for users.
Samsung also helped form the Home Connectivity Alliance, and support MATTER – an international IoT communication standard, so that the diverse intelligent devices that our homes contain can work together, regardless of brand.
2023 Samsung QLED, OLED TVs + Monitors Unveiled!
At Unbox & Discover 2023, Samsung focused on showcasing its 8K QLED and OLED TVs.
Neo QLED 8K QN900C is its top-of-the-line model with technologies like Auto HDR Remastering and 8K AI upscaling
New 98-inch Neo QLED 8K model with enhanced audio through Dolby Atmos and Q-Symphony 3.0.
2023 Samsung OLED lineup features Neural Quantum Processor 4K’s perceptional color mapping, making them the “World’s First Pantone-Validated HDR OLED” televisions!
In addition to QLED and OLED TV models, Samsung also unveiled two new Odyssey monitors:
Odyssey Neo G9 – the world’s first dual UHD resolution monitor, and
Odyssey Ark – a 55-inch curved screen with a powerful sound system and multitasking capabilities.
The new 2023 Odyssey models will be available in 2H 2023 in 57-inch Odyssey Neo G9 and the 49-inch Odyssey OLED G9 options.
Samsung also upgraded its Gaming Hub to allow gamers to play their favourite games directly from the cloud without a console or PC.
In addition to its advanced features for viewing experiences, the 2023 Odyssey lineup also offers gamer-centric features such as Game Bar, which places gamer controls front and center, as well as Mini Map Zoom and Virtual Aim Point, which can make all the difference between winning and losing in competitive gameplay.
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Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.
He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.
Samsung recently gave us a closer look at the massive professional LED display called The Wall All-In-One!
The Wall All-In-One From Samsung : A Quick Look!
The Wall All-In One is Samsung’s latest entry to its The Wall series, and was created as the ultimate display for professional purposes.
All models in The Wall line up feature the latest display technologies like:
Black Seal technology for purer black levels with enhanced depth and details;
Ultra Chroma technology, where narrower wavelengths produce RGB colors two times purer and more accurate than conventional LEDs;
20-bit processing to present extraordinary contrast ratio and smooth, natural tonal gradients; and
Micro AI Processor to enhance image contrast while removing noise instantly.
The Wall All-In-One From Samsung : Specifications
The Wall All-In-One comes in two sizes, with three models. I created this table to make it easier to compare the three models.
Specifications
146-inch (4K)
146-inch (4K)
110-inch (2K)
Screen Size
3,225.6 mm wide
1,814.4 mm tall
49.6 mm thick
2,423.1 mm wide
1,364.4 mm tall
49.5 mm thick
Screen Weight
160 kg
99 kg
Diode Type
Flip-chip RGB LED (150,000 hours lifetime)
Refresh Rate
50 / 60 / 100 / 120 Hz
Pixel Pitch
0.84 mm
1.68 mm
1.26 mm
Peak Brightness
1,600 nit
1,400 nit
1,600 nit
Max. Brightness
500 nit
Contrast Ratio
24,000:1
22,000:1
24,000:1
Viewing Angle
170° horizontal / 155° vertical
HDR10
Yes
No
Bit Depth
16-bit (20-bit internal processing)
Speaker
10 watt speakers x 2
IP Rating
IP20
Sensors
Temperature, Eco Sensor
Operating System
Tizen 6.5
Remote Control
Standard Samsung IR remote control
Input
1 x DP 1.2
3 x HDMI 2.0
2 x USB 2.0
1 x DP 1.2
3 x HDMI 1.4
2 x USB 2.0
Output
Stereo mini jack / eARC
Power Consumption
1700 watt (max.)
1100 watt (typ.)
1240 watt (max)
860 watt (typ.)
900 watt (max.)
650 watt (typ.)
The Wall All-In-One From Samsung : Price + Availability
The Wall All-In-One from Samsung is a very niche product, because it comes with a shocking price tag.
As this display is meant for professional use, it does not come with any 4K media packaged, or access to The Frame Art Store.
Model
Model Code
RRP
110-inch 2K
LH012IABMHS/XS
RM 496,543
~ US$ 112,036
~ £93,599
146-inch 2K
LH016IABMHS/XS
RM 707,132
~ US$ 159,551
~ £133,296
146-inch 4K
LH008IABMUS/XS
RM 1,229,419
~ US$ 277,396
~ £231,823
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Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.
He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.
Netflix just announced a second round of layoffs, firing 300 more employees!
Netflix Fires 300 More Employees In Round 2 Of Layoffs!
Back in February, Netflix announced that it lost 200,000 subscribers globally at the start of 2022. Even worse, it projected a decline of 2 million users in the upcoming quarter.
They blamed the drop on everything from increased competition from rival streaming services, to the economy and the war in Ukraine, as well as people sharing their Netflix accounts.
Their response was to curb losses by laying off their employees. They started by firing 150 employees last month, and followed up with 300 more employees this month.
So far, the 450 fired employees make up about 4% of the streaming giant’s workforce of about 11,000 globally.
Most of those who were fired were based in the US and allegedly of minorities, or those working on projects catering to marginalised communities.
Netflix also fired another 70 employees working for its social media and publishing teams last month, including those that catered to marginalised communities.
But while Netflix claimed that it will help reduce costs, the 4% trimming of their workforce is unlikely to make much of a dent… unless Netflix intends to fire even more employees.
Sadly, it seems likely we will see more people getting let go at Netflix.
Please Support My Work!
Support my work through a bank transfer / PayPal / credit card!
Name : Adrian Wong Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
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Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.
He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.
Samsung just launched their 2022 Neo QLED 8K televisions, with a new 2022 Ultra Slim Soundbar to complement them!
Take a look at both of them in our video showcase!
2022 Samsung Neo QLED 8K TV + Soundbar Showcase!
We were given the opportunity to view Samsung’s new 2022 Neo QLED 8K televisions, as well as the new 2022 Ultra Slim Soundbar that complements them.
The 2022 Samsung Neo QLED 8K televisions come in a variety of sizes, from 55 inches all the way to 85 inches. Take a look!
Every model is built around a new Neural Quantum Processor 8K, which has 20 independent neural AI networks, each analysing the content’s characteristics to deliver the best picture quality, regardless of the source.
It also powers a new feature called Real Depth Enhancer. Real Depth Enhancer scans each frame, and maximises the object’s contrast with the background.
The new processor also uses Shape Adaptive Light Control technology to create precise lighting and pure blacks using Samsung’s best Quantum mini LED display panel.
In fact, the 2022 Neo QLED 8K televisions are the world’s first Pantone-validated displays, which mean they will authentically reproduce more than 2000 colours, as well as 110 new skin tone shades.
These new models also use AI technology to automatically adjust the brightness and colour temperature of the display to match the room’s lighting condition.
The 2022 Neo QLED 8K televisions boast Samsung’s new Smart Hub user interface, powered by Tizen. They are also designed to provide the ultimate gaming experience through features like :
four HDMI 2.1 ports
Motion Xcelerator Turbo Pro 4K 144 Hz gaming
Super Ultrawite GameView, and
Game Bar
These televisions are also more eco-friendly, featuring eco-packaging and a more efficient SolarCell Remote that is completely battery-free, and can recharge through 2.4 GHz radio frequency harvesting – drawing power from your WiFi router’s signals!
The Neural Quantum Processor 8K also uses artificial intelligence to create a truly immersive soundscape by analysing the picture in real time, to deliver positional audio cues through the Adaptive Sound technology.
The flagship QN900B model even features a 90 watt 6.2.4 channel audio system, featuring Dolby Atmos with Object Tracking Sound Pro.
Finally, Samsung added Wireless Dolby Atmos to these models, ensuring that you can connect them to the new 2022 Ultra Slim Soundbar without using a HDMI cable!
The new Ultra Slim Soundbar delivers true 3.1.2 sound with two up-firing channels, and is now much thinner and smaller.
2022 Samsung Neo QLED 8K TV : Price + Models
The 2022 Samsung Neo QLED 8K televisions are available in a variety of sizes, at these price points :
Support my work through a bank transfer / PayPal / credit card!
Name : Adrian Wong Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
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Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.
He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.
Don’t miss the opportunity to check out Magic: The Gathering VR Art Exhibition, which ends in a few days!
Magic: The Gathering VR Art Exhibition : Don’t Miss It!
Wizards of the Coast just launched “Magic: The Gathering Virtual Art Exhibition – 83 Artists Who Drew The World of Kamigawa: Neon Dynasty“.
Available across selected Asian countries, this Virtual Reality (VR) Exhibition allows you to experience the futuristic sci-fi plane of Kamigawa and enjoy the artwork and gameplay developed for the new set.
This interactive art exhibition can also be enjoyed online on a PC (Windows only), or using your own VR headset!
You can actively enjoy the art from Kamigawa: Neon Dynasty through VR and gameplay elements, while interacting with other participants around the world remotely.
The coming-to-life concept art locations from the Kamigawa: Neon Dynasty story,
a new art viewing experience,
a 3D experience where players can summon creatures from cards to life,
a gallery with over 30 items of unpublished materials from the Wizards of the Coast Development Studio World Guide, and
a community gathering area for players to meet up virtually.
The VR art exhibition also features 134 pieces of card art from Kamigawa: Neon Dynasty drawn by 83 artists. Among the famed artists are Tetsuo Hara (“Fist of the North Star”), Yoji Shinkawa (Art Director of KOJIMA PRODUCTIONS Co., Ltd.), Katsuya Terada (character designer of “Kamen Rider W”) and others.
Magic: The Gathering VR Art Exhibition : Where To Catch It?
The Magic: The Gathering VR Art Exhibition will end on 24 February 2022, so make sure you hurry!
Here in Malaysia, you can catch it at selected Wizards Play Network (WPN) stores in the Klang Valley.
You can also catch it online here, but note that this online VR experience will only work with :
Windows PC
Meta Quest 2 (Oculus Quest 2)
Oculus Rift 2 / Rift S
HTC Vive / Vive Pro 1 / Vive Pro 2
And here’s a nice bonus – those who visit the exhibition will stand a chance to win a B2-sized poster signed by Tetsuo Hara!
The five lucky winners will be selected randomly upon completing the entry requirements.
Please Support My Work!
Support my work through a bank transfer / PayPal / credit card!
Name : Adrian Wong Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp
Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.
He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.
HUAWEI just officially launched their Vision S, powered by their own HarmonyOS operating system!
Here is what you need to know about the new HUAWEI Vision S 4K smart TV!
HUAWEI Vision S : HarmonyOS Smart TV
Powered by HarmonyOS, the HUAWEI Vision S comes in two sizes – 65-inch and 55-inch, both offering smart features like :
interconnectivity,
interactive capabilities,
multi-device collaboration, and
of course, multimedia prowess
Let’s take a quick look at what you need to know about this new smart TV!
HUAWEI Vision S : Specifications
To make it easy for you to compare the two models, here is a table comparing their key specifications :
Specifications
HUAWEI
Vision S
65-inch
HUAWEI
Vision S
55-inch
Size
65-inches
55-inches
Resolution
4K UHD
3840 x 2160 pixels
Colour Gamut
92% DCI-P3
Refresh Rate
120 Hz
Brightness
350 nits
Contrast Ratio
5000:1
Backlight Type
Direct LED
Operating System
HUAWEI HarmonyOS
Memory
3 GB
Storage
32 GB
Camera
13 MP magnetic camera
Speakers
2 x 10 W full frequency
2 x 10 W tweeters
Voice Input
6 microphones
Far-field voice pickup
Remote Control
Bluetooth voice remote control
OneHop Projection (NFC)
Connectivity
Wi-Fi : 2.4 GHz + 5 GHz
3 x HDMI 2.0 ports
1 x AV-in port
1 x USB 3.0 port
1 x SPDIF (coaxial) port
Power Consumption
230 watts
190 watts
Display Only Size
1449.3 mm wide
837.2 mm high
72.1 mm thick
1230.1 mm wide
714.1 mm high
73.0 mm thick
Display + Base Size
1449.3 mm wide
876.4 mm high
336.7 mm thick
1449.3 mm wide
753.6 mm high
258.0 mm thick
Display Only Weight
19.5 kg
14.2 kg
Display + Base Weight
20 kg
14.7 kg
HUAWEI Vision S : Key Features
Double Refresh Rate, Double Speakers!
Its 120 Hz display, coupled with Advanced Motion Estimation and Motion Compensation (MEMC) promises to offer much more immersive and smoother visuals.
On top of that, it is fitted with twice as many speakers than other smart TVs – two Full Frequency Speakers and two High Frequency Speakers, with a 1 litre sound cavity!
1080p HUAWEI MeeTime Calls!
The HUAWEI Vision S supports MeeTime calls, letting you engage in high-definition video calls at up to 1080p resolution without being connected to a HUAWEI smartphone!
All you need to do is set the Vision S to use your HUAWEI ID during the installation process, and you can make 1080p MeeTime calls directly on it!
OneHop Projection!
The HUAWEI Vision S comes with OneHop Projection built-in, activate with a tap of your HUAWEI smartphone on the HUAWEI Share icon on its remote control!
You will be able to project your smartphone contents onto the display, and navigate by simply swiping left and right on your smartphone!
Mirror Control
The Mirror Control capability turns your smartphone into a touchpad for the Vision S.
This gives you handy touch controls for easier input, without worrying about the remote again.
HUAWEI Vision S : Price + Deals!
The HUAWEI Malaysia Vision S will be available in two sizes, at these price points :
If you pre-order one, you will receive these free gifts!
Vision S 65-inch
Pre-order period : Now until 2 May 2021
Free gifts : HUAWEI WiFi AX3 router + HUAWEI FreeLace Pro *
* only on the HUAWEI Lazada Store + HUAWEI Online Store
Vision S 55-inch
Pre-order period : Now until 12 May 2021
Free gifts : RM200 instant rebate **
** only on the HUAWEI Shopee Store + HUAWEI Online Store
If you like our work, you can help support us by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!
The HUAWEI Vision S is coming soon, and here is a quick preview of their first-ever Smart TV to launch globally!
HUAWEI Vision S Smart TV : A Quick Preview!
The HUAWEI Vision S will come in two sizes – 65-inch and 55-inch, both offering smart features like :
interconnectivity,
interactive capabilities,
multi-device collaboration, and
of course, multimedia prowess
Here’s a quick look at the key features of the HUAWEI Vision S!
Double Refresh Rate, Double Speakers!
Thanks to its 120 Hz display, coupled with Advanced Motion Estimation and Motion Compensation (MEMC). the HUAWEI Vision S promises to offer much more immersive and smoother visuals.
On top of that, the HUAWEI Vision S is fitted with twice as many speakers than other smart TVs – two Full Frequency Speakers and two High Frequency Speakers, with a 1 litre sound cavity!
1080p HUAWEI MeeTime Calls!
The HUAWEI Vision S supports MeeTime calls, letting you engage in high-definition video calls at up to 1080p resolution without being connected to a HUAWEI smartphone!
All you need to do is set the Vision S to use your HUAWEI ID during the installation process, and you can make 1080p MeeTime calls directly on it!
OneHop Projection!
The HUAWEI Vision S comes with OneHop Projection built-in, activate with a tap of your HUAWEI smartphone on the HUAWEI Share icon on the Vision S’ remote control!
You will be able to project your smartphone contents onto the Vision S, and navigate by simply swiping left and right on your smartphone!
Mirror Control
The Mirror Control capability turns your smartphone into a touchpad for the Vision S.
This gives you handy touch controls for easier input, without worrying about the remote again.
If you like our work, you can help support us by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!
Epson just launched their EpiqVision Mini EF-12 portable laser projection TV!
Take a look at its key features, and find out if this is what you have been looking for!
Epson EpiqVision Mini EF-12 : Portable Laser Projection TV!
The Epson EpiqVision Mini EF-12 is a compact and lightweight laser projector that allows you to enjoy a cinema experience at home, at up to 150-inches in display!
Built around the Epson 3LCD Technology, the EpiqVision Mini EF-12 offers Full HD resolution at 1000 lumens of brightness!
Low Maintenance Cost
The Epson EpiqVision Mini EF-12 uses a laser light source with a rated lifespan of 20,000 hours.
Epson says that with 5 hours of daily use, that gives you more than 10 years of enjoyment, with little to no maintenance costs.
Epson Online Meetings (Powered By Zoom)
The EpiqVision Mini EF-12 is Zoom-ready, allowing you to quickly conduct online video conferencing without additional software.
Android TV + Chromecast Built-In
With Android TV built-in, this laser projector lets you stream movies, shows and games from Google Play, YouTube and other sources.
You can also cast your favourite entertainment app or game using Chromecast from any Android or iOS device, Windows or Mac computer!
Bluetooth Yamaha Speaker
The Epson EpiqVision Mini EF-12 has a Yamaha speaker built-in, which also works as a standalone Bluetooth speaker for your mobile devices!
Automatic Setup
Thanks to its built-in camera, it automatically adjusts the necessary horizontal and vertical keystone correction, screen distortion and focus level!
Epson EpiqVision Mini EF-12 : Price + Availability!
The Epson EpiqVision Mini EF-12 is available in mid-April 2021, with a retail price of RM 4,980 (about US$1,202 / £873 / A$1,576 / S$1,617).
Here are online purchase options in other countries :
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Maxis TV promises to offer multiple OTT steaming services at a cheaper price.
Take a look at what Maxis TV actually offers, and find out if it’s really worth your money!
Maxis TV : Cheaper OTT Streaming Bundles?
What exactly is Maxis TV? Maxis calls it a “first of its kind video entertainment service”.
Let’s be clear – Maxis TV is not a video streaming service. In fact, Maxis doesn’t actually stream anything to anyone.
All Maxis TV really does is offer bundles of five existing OTT streaming services.
dimsum
iQIYI
MUBI
viu
WeTV iflix
While they call it “completely new in the market and cannot be found anywhere else”, that’s only true if you are too lazy to subscribe to those streaming services yourselves.
Their true value proposition is offering these OTT streaming services at cheaper prices, with a single payment point. That’s really it.
Maxis TV Bundles : Are They Worth It?
Maxis TV promises to offer flexible OTT bundle passes, which confusingly, are divided into three categories :
Single Pass (should really be called Limited Pass) – Daily with 3 GB data limit : RM 3 – Weekly with 5 GB data limit : RM 5 – Monthly with 10 GB data limit : RM 9.99
2-OTT Bundle with Unlimited Data : RM 18 per month
Unlimited Bundle with Unlimited Data : RM 42 per month
We can quickly identify a few problems with the Maxis TV bundles…
Single Pass with Limited Data
Maxis should have kept things simple – charge by the day, week or month. But they had to complicate it by adding a data limit.
Their potential subscribers are going to have to figure out – how much data does this movie take up? Or that TV episode?
Why add this unnecessary limit? It seems intentionally designed to prevent binge-watching by people on a budget.
2-OTT Bundle
Maxis TV offers only five combinations for their 2-OTT Bundle.
You cannot, for example, choose dimsum and viu, or MUBI and dimsum, or MUBI and iQIYI.
This is partly because WeTV and iflix are much cheaper than viu.
Dimsum, WeTV, iflix Are FREE / Cheaper
You can actually watch dimsum, WeTV and iflix content for FREE.
You only need to pay for VIP access to certain “hot” content, or the ability to skip advertisements (WeTV and dimsum).
Only One Package Worth Considering
Unless you are looking to subscribe to multiple bundles, it is generally cheaper to subscribe directly :
dimsum VIP : RM 8.90 per month
MUBI : RM 15 per month, RM 120 per year
iQIYI Standard VIP : RM 8.90 per month
viu : RM 12.90 per month, RM 88 per year
WeTV VIP : RM 7.90 per month
iflix VIP : RM 3 per week
From our POV, the only Maxis TV bundle worth considering is the Unlimited Pass, which gives you access to all five OTT services. You will then save RM 13 per month.
Even that is assuming you plan to watch all five of them. If you only want to use 3-4 of those OTT services, it is cheaper to just subscribe directly.
Maxis TV : Free 1-Month Trial!
Maxis is now offering a free one-month trial for all new Maxis TV subscribers, even for non-Maxis customers.
So you can give it a try, or use it to get some free streaming for a month. Just make sure you discontinue it before the subscription kicks in automatically!
If you like our work, you can help support us by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!
Sony has decided to close their PG Tec factory, which manufactures audio products like WH-1000XM3 headphones!
Find out what’s going on, and what this means for their 3,400 employees and Sony fans!
Sony PG Tec Facility Will Close By September 2021!
Sony has decided to close their PG Tec manufacturing facility, which spans a land area of 172,000 m², with a total built-up area of 95,000 m².
Based in the Prai Industrial Zone, the Sony PG Tec facility produces audio products like the WH-1000XM3 and WP-SP900 headphones, wireless speakers, home theatre systems and Blu-ray players.
It is also the home of a local Sony R&D team that designed the Sony MHC-V81D sound system, amongst other audio products.
Penang Gov Confirms That Sony Will Close PG Tec Facility
Dato’ Haji Abdul Halim, the Penang Trade, Industry and Entrepreneur Development Exco, confirmed the decision, stating that the Penang state government will hold a press conference to address the matter.
According to him, the decision to close this high-tech manufacturing facility was due to “internal restructuring due to fierce market competition”.
The 3,400 or so employees at the Sony PG Tec facility will be offered a severance plan, or relocation to the Sony EMCS factory in Bangi, Selangor.
Some 1,800 employees are local, while another 1,600 are foreigners.
The Sony EMCS PG Tec facility is still operating at the moment, and will close in stages, fully ceasing operation in September 2021.
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Samsung just unveiled the 2020 edition of The Serif QLED 4K TV with the iconic I profile!
Here is what you need to know about this new Samsung lifestyle television!
The Serif (2020) by Samsung : A Fashion Statement
The 2020 edition of The Serif is one of the three Samsung lifestyle televisions being introduced this year. The others being The Frame and The Sero.
The Serif is targeted at those who want more than just a Samsung QLED TV – a fashion statement that would enhance the decor of the room.
The Serif (2020) by Samsung : What You Need To Know!
The Serif is named for its iconic serifed capital I profile, which is not only stylish but lets you mount it on a stand or any flat surface.
Easy Connectivity
The Serif 2020 is designed to connect wirelessly with your smartphone, with WiFi 5 (WiFi-AC) and Bluetooth 4.2 connectivity built-in.
Just tap your smartphone on the bezel. Its Tap View capability will have you watching the movie from your phone, or play your song playlist on The Sero in seconds!
On top of that, it also supports NFC – place your smartphone on top of The Serif to automatically connect and stream your music!
100% DCI-P3 Colour Volume
Thanks to Samsung Quantum Dot technology, The Serif 2020 delivers a full 100% DCI-P3 colour volume, as certified by Verband Deutscher Elektrotechniker (VDE).
Floor Stand
Instead of being mounted, The Serif 2020 comes with a floor stand, which can be removed if you wish to place The Serif on a table or any flat surface.
Adaptive Voice Amplifier (AVA)
The Serif 2020 monitors ambient noise levels in real-time to detect when they may interfere with your enjoyment.
When it gets noisy, it will isolate, boost and clarify voices or dialogue playing on the TV, so you won’t miss a thing.
Adaptive Picture
The Serif 2020 senses changes in ambient lighting conditions, and automatically adjust its brightness and contrast settings to maintain the best possible viewing experience.
The Serif (2020) by Samsung : Price + Availability
The Serif (2020) by Samsung is available in one size :
If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!
The Acer C250i auto-portrait portable projector is finally here!
Here is EVERYTHING you need to know about the world’s first auto-portrait LED projector!
Acer C250i Portable Projector
The Acer C250i is a lightweight, portable LED projector with a stand-free multi-angle orientation and the world’s first auto-portrait mode.
Acer C250i Twisted Roll Design
Thanks to its unique twisted roll design, it supports stand-free multi-angle projection. You no longer need a stand or tripod.
When used on its side, just roll it to the perfect angle to project on the wall or ceiling.
Its vertical orientation, on the other hand, supports horizontal wall displays, and automatically activates the auto-portrait mode.
Auto-Portrait Mode
The auto-portrait mode lets you direct project videos or photos in the portrait orientation (like video chats or live-streaming sessions) wirelessly, without black bars on both sides.
Performance
Despite its compact size, the C250i boasts 1080p (Full HD) projection, with a battery life of up to 5 hours on a single charge. You can even use it as a portable power bank to recharge your mobile devices.
Its LED module has a 30,000-hour lifespan, with 300 ANSI lumens of peak bones and a 5,000:1 contrast ratio. It also has a wide colour gamut of 100% NTSC.
Connectivity
Android and iOS users can connect and stream to the C250i wirelessly, but it also comes with a standard HDMI port to support desktop or laptop computers.
It also comes with USB Type C and USB Type A ports to support video outputs from smartphones. You can also insert a USB drive for direct playback without a PC or smartphone.
Acer C250i Specifications
Specifications
Projector C250i
Projection System
DLP
Light Source
LED
Resolution
1920 x 1080 pixels
Brightness
300 Lumens
Contrast Ratio
5000 : 1
Lamp Life
20,000 Hours (Standard)
30,000 Hours (ECO)
Battery
30 Whr lithium ion
(9,000 mAh @ 3.33 V)
Input Ports
HDMI x 1
USB Type A x 1
USB Type C x 1
Output Ports
3.5 mm Audio Jack x 1
USB Type A (DC Out) x 1
Dimensions
104 mm in diameter
190 mm tall
Weight
775 g
Acer C250i Price + Availability
The Acer C250i is available with immediate effect, at the recommended retail prices of RM 1,699 / ~S$569 / US$489 / ~£317 / €539 / RMB 3,299 / ~A$608.
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Samsung just announced that their 2020 QLED 8K TVs will be NEXTGEN TV ready, thanks to the inclusion of ATSC 3.0 tuners!
Find out what it means to have an ATSC 3.0 / NEXTGEN TV tuner built into your TV!
2020 Samsung QLED 8K TVs Are NEXTGEN TV Ready!
When Samsung unveiled their monstrous 2020 QLED 8K Q950 TV, they also shared that ALL 2020 Samsung LED 8K TV models will come with a built-in ATSC 3.0 tuner, making them NEXTGEN TV ready!
NEXTGEN TV is the marketing name for the ATSC 3.0 (Advanced Television Systems Committee 3.0) standard that will go on air this year in at least 61 markets.
One of the key benefits NEXTGEN TV offers over the current ATSC 1.0 standard is its ability to receive and playback content in up to 4K resolution, rather than just Full HD.
The other benefit is an improved audio experience through its Multi-Channel Object Audio and Dialogue Enhancement feature.
With an ATSC 3.0 tuner built-in, users of the 2020 Samsung QLED 8K TVs will get to enjoy 4K broadcasts and content, together with superior audio quality, once the signals start transmitting in their locations.
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At CES 2020, Samsung peeled away the covers, and unveiled the 2020 Samsung QLED 8K Q950 TV!
Let’s find out what’s new in Samsung’s next-generation QLED 8K TV!
2020 Samsung QLED 8K Q950 TV
The 2020 Samsung QLED 8K Q950 TV is the first television in the world to feature surround sound audio, an incredible 8K resolution, and an ultra-thin form factor.
Ultra-Thin Design
Samsung almost entirely eliminated the bezels around the Q950’s display, creating an incredible screen-to- body ratio of nearly 99 percent.
When viewed from ten to fifteen feet (3 to 5 meters) away, you will experience what Samsung calls the Infinity Screen effect – where the bezels seem to disappear!
The Q950 is also extremely thin – only 15 millimetres across the entire display. You can lay it flush against the wall, or mount it on a media stand.
Certified 8K Resolution
The 2020 Samsung QLED 8K Q950 TV is certified to meet the requirements of both the 8K Association’s Certified Test Specifications, as well as the CTA 8K Ultra HD Display Definition.
It will be able to playback native 8K content, letting consumers stream AV1 codec videos filmed in 8K. But for lower resolution content, the Q950’s Quantum Processor 8K has improved AI upscaling capabilities that uses machine learning to create 8K images from lower resolution sources.
Optimal Picture Quality
The Q950’s Adaptive Picture feature uses light sensors and AI to analyse the ambient light and distribution of light in a particular scene, so it can ensure that the TV can maintain a clear picture with great contrast even in bright rooms, or with glare from a light source.
Because a significant amount of content we consume these days are through streaming on the Internet, it comes with AI ScaleNet that compresses content as it leaves the content provider, restoring it on reaching the TV. This effectively cuts down by half the bandwidth required for any streaming content.
Of course, AI ScaleNet requires the content provider to support such a feature. Samsung is currently working with Amazon on this feature, with plans to use it for Prime Video content, from standard definition to 4K.
NEXTGEN TV Ready!
The Q950 will come with a built-in ATSC 3.0 tuner, making it NEXTGEN TV ready! It will be ready to receive and display 4K content once NEXTGEN TV networks come online later this year!
Immersive Audio Experience
As Samsung’s flagship QLED 8K TV, the Q950 comes with the best audio solution Samsung engineers can come up with.
It has speakers on every side of the display, with subwoofers in the back, delivering 5.1 channel surround sound. But its immersive audio experience goes beyond the hardware.
The Q950 uses Object Tracking Sound+, an AI-based technology to match the audio with the movement of objects on the screen. Its Active Voice Amplifier (AVA) technology adjusts the volume of dialogue in response to common sounds like a blender or vacuum cleaner.
Finally, the Q950 can use its built-in speakers as an additional audio channel, when paired with a 2020 Q Series soundbar, like the Q800. Its Q-Symphony feature will pair the audio from both devices to create a dynamic and multi-dimensional soundscape.
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Connected Family Hub
The 2020 Samsung QLED 8K Q950 TV comes with access to Samsung TV Plus – their free smart TV video service, with nearly 100 channels, including CBSN, Yahoo Finance, Lively Place, Bon Appétit, VEVO, Outside TV+, etc.
It also comes with Samsung Health on TV built-in. This will let your family members see their fitness activities, track their progress, and pursue fitness goals. They will also have access to free, exclusive content from Samsung fitness partners like Calm, FitPlan, Jillian Michaels, Echelon, Obe Fitness and Barre 3.
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The Iron Man Dance Hero looked so darn cute when we first saw it, we decided to check it out in detail.
Here is our short and sweet review of the cute and loud Iron Man Dance Hero!
Iron Man Dance Hero
The Iron Man Dance Hero is a simple toy, with a simple premise – an Asian-looking Tony Stark in a cute Iron Man suit dancing to music.
The truth though is that it is a little more than just a dancing robot. Take a closer look at the Iron Man Dance Hero in our hands-on video!
The Icon Man Dance Hero basically has three key features, officially listed as :
Cool music
Fabulous dance
Cool lighting
It also has a retractable face mask (which reveals an Asian-looking Tony Stark!), as well as posable arms :
It requires three AA batteries. The box says 1.5 V alkaline batteries are recommended, but we had no problem using 1.2 V NiMH rechargeable batteries.
Iron Man Dance Hero In Action!
The Iron Man Dance Hero has a simple three-way switch at the back of its head.
Left : Lights, music and dancing off
Middle : Only lights turned on
Right : Lights, music and dancing turned on!
When turned off, it functions like a figurine or toy. Turning on the lights lets it function like a night light.
And of course, it becomes an entertainment device when you turn everything on! But look at how cute it dances!
The lights in the eyes will change, and so does the music. But the lights in its palms and its chest will remain uniformly white.
There is no volume control, which could be a problem because the Iron Man Dance Hero is very loud! But kids seem to love it!
Even if you tire of its dance and music after some time, it is quite useful as a night light, especially with both arms pointing upwards.
Iron Man Dance Hero Price + Availability
The Iron Man Dance Hero we tested has a height and width of 19 cm, with a thickness of about 10 cm. Just to be clear, it does not come with any batteries in the box.
Its price varies wildly, depending on whether you purchase it online or in retail (where we have seen prices of RM 45-60 / US$11-15 / £8-11 / S$15-20 / A$16-21 being quoted).
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But here are some online purchase options you can consider :
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Netflix just released a video trailer, six teaser photos and some plot teasers of Sex Education Season 2! Here are the full details!
Sex Education
In Sex Education, Otis Milburn is a socially awkward high school student who is the son of a sex therapist – Jean.
In Season 1, Otis and his friend, Maeve Wiley, set up a sex clinic at school to capitalise on his intuitive talent for sex advice.
Sex Education Season 2
Netflix announced that Sex Education will return with 8 new episodes in 2020, directed by Ben Taylor, Alice Seabright and Sophie Goodhart.
In Sex Education Season 2, Otis must master his newly-discovered sexual urges to progress with his girlfriend, Ola… while handling his strained relationship with Maeve.
Meanwhile, a Chlamydia outbreak hits Moordale Secondary, highlighting the need for better sex education and the new kids who are challenging the status quo at the school.
Here are some teasers of the plot in Sex Education Season 2 :
Maeve and Aimee’s BFF relationship is stronger than ever since Aimee ditched ‘the Untouchables’.
Eric notices his new-found self-confidence attracting unfamiliar kinds of attention.
Adam is at military school, still conflicted by his feelings for Eric.
Lily has hit pause on her sexual endeavours to focus on her creative talents and finds a new found friend in Ola.
Jackson is forced to flex his mental rather than physical muscle and is still buckling under the pressure from his parents to succeed.
Jean and Jakob’s relationship is discovered and they have to learn how to operate as a blended family. Jean forms an unlikely connection with Mrs Groff and a friendship between the two women begins to form.
Sex Education Season 2 Photos
Netflix also shared with us six photos from Season 2 of Sex Education :
Sex Education Season 2 Success Critical For Netflix
Netflix is counting on their original series like Sex Education to stave off the exodus when Disney Plus launches later today, and HBO Max comes online.
Sex Education Season 1 was a success for Netflix, and they are counting on Season 2 to keep subscribers from quitting their service.
Will it work? Or will subscribers decide that Disney+ at half the price of their Netflix subscription is a better bet? We will soon find out!
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Netflix just announced a special new RM 17 (US$4) mobile-only streaming plan for Malaysia!
Here is everything you need to know about this highly-affordable Netflix Mobile plan, and whether it’s worth the dough!
RM 17 Netflix Mobile Streaming Plan For Malaysia!
The new highly-affordable RM 17 Netflix mobile streaming plan is designed for individual users who consume content mainly on their smartphone or tablet.
For just RM 17 per month, the new Netflix Mobile plan allows you to watch all of Netflix’s content in standard definition (SD) on one smartphone or tablet at a time.
Netflix Mobile users will have access to both local and international content, as well as Parental Controls, Smart Downloads, adaptive UI and social media sharing.
With this new plan, Malaysians now have four different plans to choose from :
Netflix Mobile : How To Sign Up!
Signing up for this new streaming plan is simple :
Download the Netflix app on your smartphone or tablet, or visit www.netflix.com
Register and log into the Netflix app, or your Netflix account.
Select the Netflix Mobile plan for RM 17 per month.
Sharing Is A Better Option Than Netflix Mobile
While the new mobile plan is cheap, it is actually smarter and cheaper to share.
If you have a friend or family member who wants to watch Netflix too, opt for the Standard plan at RM 42 per month. Both of you can watch better HD quality video at the same time, for just RM 21 per person, per month.
The best option though is to share the Premium plan with three other friends or family members. It lets all four of you watch up to 4K videos at the same time, for just RM 12.75 per month, per person!
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Samsung just revealed four new 2019 QLED 8K and 4K TV families, including a massive 98-inch Samsung QLED 8K TV, and a new Harman Kardon soundbar to pair them with!
Here are details of the new 2019 QLED 8K and 4K TV models, as well as their official price list and promotions!
The 2019 Samsung QLED 8K + 4K TV Models
Headlining the new 2019 QLED 8K family is the new 98-inch Samsung QA900R QLED 8K TV – their largest 8K TV ever.
Samsung Quantum Processor
The 2019 Samsung QLED 8K TVs are the first to feature a Quantum Processor, which uses AI algorithms to automatically upscale your original content format into 8K quality. This allows you to experience all your favourite old shows in the 8K resolution!
Ultra Viewing Angle + Direct Full Array
The 2019 Samsung QLED TVs get rid of glare and reflections with the Ultra Viewing Angle technology, an improved panel structure, as well as the new screen calibration algorithms. They also deliver better blacks, with Direct Full Array technology.
On top of that, they now come with a built-in light control sensor, which automatically adjusts the display brightness to suit the ambient conditions of the room. Now that’s a really smart TV!
HDR10+ Support
With HDR10+ support, the bright scenes will appear brighter and the dark scenes darker. With greater contrast, your movies will appear as what their directors intended.
Samsung Magic Screen
The 2019 Samsung QLED TV range supports the Samsung Magic Screen feature, which lets users personalise their TV screen with themes, photos, and useful information.
It can even be used to mimic the look of your wall, or play your favourite music when it is not in use!
The 2019 Samsung QLED 8K + 4K TV Price List + Promotions
Samsung is celebrating the launch of their 2019 QLED TVs with a roadshow and promotions at Centre Court, Mid Valley from the 8th till 12th May 2019. Here is the official price list and promotion :
Model No
Size
Recommended Retail Price
Promotion
Samsung QA900R
8K Smart QLED TV
98”
RM 299,999
NA
82”
RM 99,999
NA
75”
RM 59,999
2 + 3 Years Extended Warranty
Samsung QA90R
4K Smart QLED TV
75”
RM 29,999
2 + 3 Years Extended Warranty
65”
RM 18,999
2 + 3 Years Extended Warranty
Samsung QA75R
4K Smart QLED TV
75”
RM 19,999
2 + 3 Years Extended Warranty
65”
RM 13,999
2 + 3 Years Extended Warranty
55”
RM 7,999
2 + 3 Years Extended Warranty
Samsung QA60R
4K Smart QLED TV
82”
RM 19,999
FREE 1 unit x Samsung Galaxy S10E worth RM 2,699
75”
RM 13,999
FREE 1 unit x Samsung Galaxy A50 worth RM 1,199
65”
RM 8,999
FREE 1 unit x Samsung Galaxy Tab A 7.0 worth RM 659
55”
RM 6,499
FREE 1 unit x Samsung Galaxy Tab A 7.0 worth RM 659
49”
RM 4,999
Promotional price at RM 3,499
Soundbar N950 with Harman Kardon
–
RM 6,499
Promotional price at RM 3,999 with any Samsung TV purchase
All models mentioned above are available for purchase with immediate effect.
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Get ready to be entertained! The iflix-Media Prima partnership is set to boost local content offering in Malaysia!
iflix-Media Prima Partnership To Boost Local Content Offering!
iflix announced its latest partnership with local media company Media Prima to boost local content!
Through this partnership, iflix will stream Media Prima’s content a mere one hour after the latter’s screening on its own platform. This will give iflix about 1,000 hours of Media Prima’s past content in the form of a separate Tonton channel on iflix.
The iflix-Media Prima Partnership Expands Viewership
This partnership will enable Media Prima to increase its reach all over the country, as its content is screened on iflixFREE, iflix‘s ad-supported tier.
New Content And Drama productions Coming Soon!
Both companies worked together before on the hit local drama Nur 2 through Primeworks Studios.
And soon it will include plans for new content and more drama co-productions through the iflix-Media Prima partnership.
“This alliance is a significant milestone and another considerable boost to iflix’s local content offering. Over the past three months, we have accelerated the pivot away from Western towards local and regional programming, to deliver the most relevant and compelling content to users in our territories for free.” said Mark Britt, iflix Co-Founder and Group CEO.
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BenQ 4K projectors have been the no. 1 in Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa for 3 straight quarters in 2018. Find out how BenQ best their rivals in the 4K projector market for most of 2018!
BenQ 4K Projectors No. 1 For 3 Consecutive Quarters In 2018
With a massive 36% of market share in the Asia Pacific region and the Middle East, BenQ 4K projectors has emerged the top brand for 4K projectors. In Japan alone, BenQ captured a historical market share of 53% in the 4K projector segment.
Winning Features of BenQ 4K Projectors
BenQ’ s product quality and unique Cinematic Color technology offers long-lasting accurate colors and authentic cinema performance.
BenQ W1700 4K home cinema projector was awarded the G-mark Design Award 2018 by The Good Design Award for its design that blends well into home space.
BenQ TK800 4K HDR home projector won the 2019 Sound+Image Yearly Award for Best AV Projector under $5000 from Australia.
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Samsung just introduced two premium Harman Kardon soundbars. Here is the official Samsung Harman Kardon soundbar tech briefing, and the 2018 Samsung and Harman Kardon soundbar price list!
The Harman Kardon Soundbar Tech Briefing
Following Samsung’s acquisition of Harman International in March 2017, the two companies have been collaborating on mobile products including the AKG headphones bundled with certain Samsung mobile phones (like the Samsung Galaxy Note9) and tablets tuned by AKG (like the Samsung Galaxy Tab S4), as well as professional solutions for cinemas with the JBL Professional brand.
The HW-N950 and HW-N850 soundbars are the first major collaboration between Samsung and Harman Kardon to enter the premium category. Also, thanks to the addition of DTS’ proprietary DTS:X technology, along with Dolby Atmos, consumers can enjoy immersive and rich three-dimensional sound.
With the HW-N950 and HW-N850, consumers will feel like they are in a theater without leaving home thanks to Dolby Atmos and DTS:X technologies, plus up and side-firing speakers that move sound naturally above and around listeners. The HW-N950 especially is equipped with a main unit, four speakers and two wireless surround sound speakers, offering an incredibly immersive sound experience.
Also, thanks to its 7.1.4 channels, the largest number of channels currently available in a soundbar, the HW-N950 features a built-in wireless subwoofer and rear wireless speaker kit to round out the premium audio experience. The HW-N850, a more simplified version of the HW-N950, boasts a 5.1.2 channel featuring a main unit speaker and woofer.
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Designed to deliver the big screen experience, the BenQ TK800 4K HDR projector is their top-of-the-line 4K HDR projector for the home entertainment market.
Find out why the BenQ TK800 won our Reviewer’s Choice Award!
BenQ TK800 Key Features Summarised
Here is a quick video that summarises the key features of the BenQ TK800 4K HDR projector :
BenQ TK800 Price + Availability
The BenQ TK800 4K HDR Projector is available at a retail price of RM 5,599 in Malaysia / US$ 1,499. Here are some online purchase links :
The BenQ TK800 (MY|SG|US|UK|AU) comes in an unassuming brown box, with a discreet TK800 label on the lower right corner. Let’s unbox it and see what we find inside!
Once you fully unbox it, you will find the following items :
One BenQ TK800 4K HDR projector with lens cap
One 3 m long power cord with localised power plug
One BenQ RCV015 remote control
Two Maxell AA alkaline batteries
One CD containing the User Manual and Adobe Acrobat Reader
One BenQ User Manual Addendum sheet
One BenQ Quick Start Guide
Note that the package does not include any HDMI cable. While you can use HDMI 1.4 cables, it is recommended that you use HDMI 2.0a/b cables that are certified for 4K video at 60 Hz with HDR.
The BenQ TK800 Up Close!
The BenQ TK800 (MY|SG|US|UK|AU) is a compact projector that weighs just 4.2 kg. Its powerful 240 watt lamp allows it to create 4K HDR displays at up to 200″ in size at 3,000 lumens!
Its DLP projection system is built around a single DMD chip and a new 4-segment colour wheel that delivers 30-bit colour resolution, with a wide colour gamut of over 92% of Rec. 709!
The TK800 comes with a plethora of connectivity options – all the way from the good old VGA port to the latest HDMI 2.0 port (with HDCP 2.2).
And a combination of three adjuster feet and easy keystone correction allows you to properly align the projected image.
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4K Lens System
The BenQ TK800 features an optical system designed for 4K projection.
The lens array consists of four groups of 7 lens elements, with low-dispersion coatings to minimise chromatic aberrations.
This 4K lens system provides up to 1.2X optical zoom, with wide apertures of f/1.94 to f/2.06.
The zoom function allows you to, for example, project a 100″ image from a distance of 3.25 m to 3.9 m away.
At its widest, the TK800 lens array will provide clear focus between 1.95 m and 6.51 m away. if you dial the zoom up to 1.2X, it will provide clear focus between 2.34 m and 7.81 m away.
4K UHD Resolution
The BenQ TK800 (MY|SG|US|UK|AU) is built around the 0.47″ single DMD (Digital Micromirror Device) chip from Texas Instruments.
There are over 2 million microscopic mirrors on this chip – each representing a pixel.
This DMD chip has a native resolution of 1920 x 1080, so how does the TK800 project a 4K UHD display with 4X as many pixels? That’s where the XPR Technology comes in.
XPR Technology
What XPR does is “wriggle” the projection lens in a circular fashion at 240 Hz, so that each micromirror creates four projected pixels, instead of just one pixel.
This effectively quadruples the DMD chip’s native resolution of 1920 x 1080 into a projected image of 3840 x 2160 pixels.
XPR allows the TK800 to deliver true 4K resolution with almost 8.3 million pixels, making the projected image appear much sharper, especially in larger projections.
However, because they were generated from a DMD chip with 1920 x 1080 independent pixels, expect aliasing artifacts.
While a true 4K DMD chip with 8.3 million micro mirrors would deliver the best possible 4K projection quality, that is many more years in the making and would be prohibitively expensive.
4K Scaling
The single DMD chip the BenQ TK800 (MY|SG|US|UK|AU) uses has just over 2 million micro mirrors, which gives it a native resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels.
This means that all 4K content will be downsampled to 1080p, and processed for 4K output by the DMD chip. The projected image is then quadrupled by XPR to the 4K resolution.
The actual image is not a true 4K output of a proper 4K DMD chip, but it’s far better than a 1080p projection. The image processing ensures that final image is perceptively close to the actual 4K image.
The good news is – XPR will also upscale your 1080p content to the 4K display resolution, giving you a perceptively sharper and more detailed image than is possible with a 1080p projector.
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HDR With Wide Colour Gamut
DLP projectors can deliver wide colour gamuts, allowing the displayed colours to be more vivid, and more accurately reflect real world colours.
The BenQ TK800 (MY|SG|US|UK|AU) comes with a new 4-segment RGBW colour wheel which allows it to achieve 92% of the Rec. 709 colour space.
As a HDR-capable projector, the BenQ TK800 (MY|SG|US|UK|AU) supports HDR10 content, which are enhanced with their exclusive Auto HDR Natural Colour Rendition and Projector-Optimized HDR technologies.
Auto HDR Natural Colour Rendition automatically analyses the scene and adjusts the colour temperature, and compensates for oversaturated greens and reds.
Projector-Optimized HDR, on the other hand, enhances dark details by preserving details and displaying the grayscales properly.
This is probably a combination of a light dump for the micromirrors, and the DMD chip’s ability to produce 10-bits of greyscale (1024 shades).
Do note that you should use HDMI 2.0a/b cables if you plan to display HDR content. Only HDMI 2.0a/b cables are certified for 4K video at 60 Hz with HDR.
Football + Sport Modes
The BenQ TK800 (MY|SG|US|UK|AU) is a home entertainment model that adds two new display modes – Football and Sport.
The Football Mode preserves natural skin tones, intensifies the vibrant colours of the lush green grass on the pitch while simultaneously enhancing the clarity of the announcer’s commentary over the loud background noise of a cheering crowd in an open-air stadium.
Sport Mode is ideal for indoor sports and prioritises realistic skin tones, enhancing wood tones as well as offering vivid reds combined with balanced green and blues.
The acoustic clarity of a sports commentator’s voice and other subtle details such as squeaking sneakers, referee whistles, and ice scraping under skates are retained and enhanced.
BenQ CinemaMaster Audio+ 2
The BenQ TK800 (MY|SG|US|UK|AU) features their improved CinemaMaster Audio+ 2 technology.
It uses a single 5 W speaker, with an aluminium driver diaphragm for better details in the mid and high frequencies, while a resonance chamber provides a more resonant bass.
The speaker also uses heat-resistant NdFeB magnets for a longer lifespan, and less distortion.
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BenQ TK800 Control Options
The BenQ TK800 (MY|SG|US|UK|AU) has simple controls located on the top panel.
It consists of a Power button, arrow keys (that double as keystone and volume control keys), and other OSD function keys.
For more elaborate functions, you can use the BenQ RCV015 remote control.
The BenQ TK800 (MY|SG|US|UK|AU) projector has two IR receivers for this remote control – one located at the top, next to the controls, and the other is in front, next to the lens.
BenQ TK800 Adjustment Options
To keep the BenQ TK800 (MY|SG|US|UK|AU) level on uneven surfaces, it comes with three adjustment feet, all with rubber soles.
The front adjustment foot has a quick release button with four locking steps. The two rear adjustment feet are of the screw type, which allows for finer adjustments independently.
The BenQ TK800 (MY|SG|US|UK|AU) also comes with easy keystone correction. Just use the vertical keystone correction function to quickly align the projected image.
This is very useful if you plan to use the TK800 (which is portable) at different locations.
BenQ TK800 Connectivity Options
The BenQ TK800 (MY|SG|US|UK|AU) comes with a plethora of connectivity options, all discreetly hidden at the rear panel.
From left to right, you will find the following ports :
3-pin 12 V power port
3.5 mm audio-in port
3.5 mm audio-out port
15-pin VGA port
HDMI 1 – HDMI 2.0a (with HDCP 2.2)
HDMI 2 – HDMI 1.4 (with HDCP 1.4)
mini-B USB 2.0 port
Type A USB 2.0 port (with 1.5 A power output)
12 V trigger port
Kensington lock slot
Please note that while there are two HDMI ports, only HDMI 1 supports HDMI 2.0a with HDCP 2.2. You should always connect your Blu-ray player, or other sources of 4K content to HDMI 1.
You should also use a HDMI 2.0a/b cable that is certified to support 4K video at 60 Hz with HDR.
The BenQ TK800 In Action!
We set-up the BenQ TK800 (MY|SG|US|UK|AU) in a moderately dim room, to create an image of about 80-inches in size in a small condo
4K HDR Video – Insects
We made the hall darker in this test, so you can better assess the contrast ratio (rated at 10:000:1), and the colour gamut (rated at > 92% Rec. 709).
You can’t see it in the video, but you have to go very close to the wall to make out the individual pixels. The image may have been pixel-quadrupled from 1080p, but it is perceptually indiscernible from a true 4K image.
Note too how loud and rich its single 5 W speaker sounds. BenQ delivers on the promise promise of better details and resonant bass with its aluminium driver diaphragm and resonance chamber.
4K HDR Video – Scenery
In this test, we let more ambient light in, to simulate the usual daytime viewing with the (non-blackout) curtains drawn.
The 3000 lumens Philips bulb did a great job of delivering more than adequate brightness to tackle the ambient light coming in from the curtains on the right.
Note how vivid the images are. That’s thanks to its 4-segment RGBW colour wheel which allows it to deliver a HDR image with true white.
It also allows the TK800 to deliver a wider colour gamut in excess of 92% of the Rec. 709 colour space.
On the audio side, note the fan noise just before the test begins. It is quite audible when nothing is running, but once you start the video, the 5 watt speaker is so powerful, it completely drowns out the fan noise.
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BenQ TK800 : Our Verdict + Award
The BenQ TK800 (Price Check) is a truly impressive 4K HDR projector.
There may be brighter 4K projectors (like the 3500-lumen ViewSonic PX747-4K), but it is one of the few to offer a 4-segment colour wheel to deliver true white for a vivid HDR viewing experience, and a wide colour gamut of 92% of the Rec. 709 colour space.
This allows the TK800. to stand out amongst the crowded field of affordable 4K projectors designed to provide a cinema-like experience.
Now, it does not offer a true dot-for-dot 4K resolution like a proper 4K LCD TV would, but it delivers 4K images that are perceptually indistinguishable from true 4K images. And it gives you a much larger display size at a fraction of the cost.
DLP projection technology also eliminates a pesky problem with LCD TV technology – glare from ambient light sources. Its main problem of washed-out colours in bright ambient light is largely eliminated by the much higher 3000-lumen brightness in the BenQ TK800 (Price Check) – 36% brighter than its predecessor, the BenQ W1700 / TH2550!
It also impressed us with its audio capabilities. Powered only by a single 5 watt speaker, it delivered a surprisingly loud and rich soundscape.
For these reasons, we believe the BenQ TK800 (Price Check) deserves our Reviewer’s Choice Award! Congratulations, BenQ!
BenQ TK800 vs. BenQ W1700 / TH2550
The BenQ TK800 is a much brighter version of the BenQ W1700 / TH2550 launched last year, with a new 4-segment colour wheel. Here is a comparison of their key specifications, with their differences highlighted.
Specifications
BenQ TK800
BenQ W1700 / TH2550
Projection System
0.47” single DMD DLP
0.47” single DMD DLP
Display Resolution
3840 x 2160 pixels with XPR
1920 x 1080 pixels without XPR
3840 x 2160 pixels with XPR
1920 x 1080 pixels without XPR
Native Aspect Raio
16:9
16:9
Colour Resolution
30-bits (1.07 billion colours)
30-bits (1.07 billion colours)
Colour Gamut
> 92% Rec. 709
> 96% Rec. 709
Maximum Brightness
3000 ANSI Lumens
2200 ANSI lumens
Contrast Ratio (FOFO)
10,000:1
10,000:1
HDR Capable
Yes, HDR10
Yes, HDR10
3D Compatibility
Frame Sequential: Up to 1280x720 120 Hz
Frame Packing: Up to 1080p 24 Hz
Side by Side: Up to 1080i 60 Hz
Top Bottom: Up to 1080p 24 Hz
Frame Sequential: Up to 1280x720 120 Hz
Frame Packing: Up to 1080p 24 Hz
Side by Side: Up to 1080i 60 Hz
Top Bottom: Up to 1080p 24 Hz
Light Source
Philips UHP E20.7 Fusion Air Lamp
- 170 W to 240 W
Philips UHP E20.7 Fusion Air Lamp
- 170 W to 240 W
Bright / Vivid TV / Cinema / Sport / Football / User1 / User2 / (3D)
Bright / Vivid / Cinema / Sport / User 1 / User 2 / ISF Night / ISF Day
Audio
CinemaMaster Audio+ 2
1 x 5 W speaker
CinemaMaster Audio+ 2
1 x 5 W speaker
Available Ports
1 x VGA (15-pin D-Sub)
1 x HDMI 2.0a (HDCP 2.2)
1 x HDMI 1.4a (HDCP 1.4)
1 x USB 2.0 Type A
1 x USB 2.0 Type mini B
1 x 3.5 mm Audio in
1 x 3.5 mm Audio out
1 x 9-pin RS-232 serial port
1 x 3.5 mm DC 12V trigger
1 x VGA (15-pin D-Sub)
1 x HDMI 2.0a (HDCP 2.2)
1 x HDMI 1.4a (HDCP 1.4)
1 x USB 2.0 Type A
1 x USB 2.0 Type mini B
1 x 3.5 mm Audio in
1 x 3.5 mm Audio out
1 x 9-pin RS-232 serial port
1 x 3.5 mm DC 12V trigger
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