Epson has introduced a new top-tier ultra-short-throw projector as part of its Lifestudio range, aiming to deliver a large-screen home cinema experience in a compact form.

The Lifestudio Grand Plus, priced at approximately A$5,800, combines high brightness with 4K visuals and HDR support, using a laser light source and a three-chip LCD system. This setup avoids visual issues such as the rainbow effect that can appear on some competing models and is designed to produce more consistent colour performance.

With brightness rated at 4,000 lumens for both colour and white output, the projector is built to perform in rooms with some ambient light, although optimal results are still expected in darker viewing environments. Epson has also incorporated dual-axis pixel shifting to achieve full 4K resolution, marking an upgrade from earlier models that relied on more limited techniques.

The device runs on Google TV, giving users access to a wide range of streaming apps and cloud gaming services. It also introduces support for Google Gemini, allowing for more conversational voice interactions. Users can ask questions, receive personalised recommendations or control smart home devices through the projector.

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Connectivity includes three HDMI ports with support for HDMI eARC and Auto Low Latency Mode, along with compatibility for 4K at 120-hertz input, making it suitable for gaming with newer consoles or PCs.

Audio is handled by a built-in 2.1-channel system developed in collaboration with Bose. While the integrated speakers are designed to deliver strong sound for everyday use, the projector can also be paired with external audio equipment for a more immersive setup.

The Lifestudio Grand Plus is capable of projecting images up to 150 inches, offering an alternative to traditional televisions for larger spaces. Epson also provides dedicated ambient light-rejecting screens in 100-inch and 120-inch sizes, with additional options available from third-party manufacturers.

The new model reflects a broader trend in home entertainment, where manufacturers are combining large display capabilities with smart features and integrated audio to create all-in-one solutions.

Official Australian pricing and release details are yet to be confirmed.