Katarzyna Petru
Philips has just unveiled a new line of LCD televisions that combine the Roku TV system with the well-known Ambilight technology. These are the first models where the colour backlighting effect also works in the Roku interface – meaning not only during movie and series viewing but also while browsing over 500 live TV channels or sharing photos and videos from an iPhone using Apple AirPlay.
Ambilight + Roku = budget premium effect
Ambilight is a solution that has been known for years – LED lights at the back of the television project colours onto the wall, matching them to the picture. Until now, to achieve a similar effect in budget televisions, one had to invest in external accessories – for example, the Philips Hue 8K Sync Box (around 350 USD), which costs nearly as much as the largest of the new televisions. Cheaper alternatives like Govee Backlight 3 Pro or Nanoleaf 4D V2 also require the installation of additional cameras.
The new Philips Roku TV has all of this built in. Importantly, the LED lights can also be used when the television is turned off – for example, as a dynamic screensaver (Roku Backdrops) or music visualisation.
Parameters and Features
Although we won't find OLED or Mini LED here, all models offer:
4K resolution,
support for HDR10,
automatic picture modes depending on the content,
the ability to wirelessly connect to Roku speakers and soundbars,
support for the Roku mobile app (voice control, smart home, on-screen notifications).
Sizes and Prices
The models are exclusively available for sale at Sam's Club (USA), both online and in-store. Four sizes are available:
Size | Price USD | Price AUD | Price EUR | Price GBP | Price PLN* |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
43” | $229 | ~355 AUD | ~215 EUR | ~185 GBP | ~980 zł |
50” | $259 | ~402 AUD | ~245 EUR | ~210 GBP | ~1,110 zł |
55” | $329 | ~510 AUD | ~310 EUR | ~265 GBP | ~1,410 zł |
65” | $389 | ~603 AUD | ~365 EUR | ~315 GBP | ~1,670 zł |
*Approximate conversions based on current exchange rates.
