Optoma Smart Projector Now Speaks Google and Alexa

Optoma has added Google Assistant voice control to the first-of-its-kind Alexa-enabled projector it shipped in May.

The UHD51A 4K/UHD smart projector now works with Google Assistant, making it the only projector compatible with both voice platforms, according to Optoma. Research from Consumer Intelligence Research Partners shows that, when combined, the Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant platforms account for more than 45 million units sold in the U.S., with Alexa capturing about two thirds of the number.

Optoma says the goal is to provide a way to integrate big-screen video into smart homes that support voice control for a variety of AV gear, including speakers, screens, lighting, and more. The Optoma SmartProjection Action for Google Home and Assistant allows viewers to turn the projector on and off, adjust volume and brightness, change inputs and display modes, and make other adjustments to the image.

“Consumers are increasingly integrating voice assistants into their daily routines, as well as expecting the convenience of smart home integration with their devices and electronics, so it was important for us to enable home theater to align with these growing consumer needs,” said Brian Soto, head of product management at Optoma Technology.

The SmartProjection for Smart Home Alexa skill provides voice control functionality that is similar to Google Assistant, enabling hands-free control for turning the projector on and off, changing volume and inputs, and controlling the projector’s built-in USB media player. Optoma said a new Alexa Custom Skill called Advanced SmartProjection is coming soon. The skill will enable voice commands to be used to change picture modes, including those for HDR, as well as the projector’s PureMotion settings.

Beyond the voice-control innovation, the UHD51A features a built-in 4K media player and supports HDR10 high dynamic range (HDR), 60 Hz refresh rates, and Rec.2020/DCI-P3 wide color gamut. Other highlights include integrated speakers, a six-segment color wheel, 1.3x optical zoom, 15 percent vertical lens shift, and two HDCP 2.2-enabled HDMI 2.0 inputs.

The UHD51A projector, which is capable of projecting an “optimal” image size of up to 140 inches diagonal, is compatible with 3D Blu-ray and supports the MHL 2.1 connection standard. Specs include a rated brightness of 2,400 ANSI lumens and rated contrast ratio of 500,000:1.

For more information, visit optoma.com.

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