A study commissioned by Epson has uncovered increasing demand for home cinema experiences, with tremendous advancements in technology and a shift in lifestyle preferences driving consumers towards choosing large-screen projectors over traditional television sets for such experiences. Whether for creating a home theatre, gaming experience or enjoying content with a large-screen display, the survey results show that projectors have become a preferred option in the world of home entertainment. Their growing popularity reflects consumers’ desire for larger, more immersive, and flexible viewing experiences.

Epson conducted the survey across five markets – Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Morocco, Türkiye, and South Africa – to identify current trends in home cinema experiences. The research revealed that 50.8% of respondents across the five markets favour large-screen projectors over traditional TV sets, with the highest number of respondents preferring projectors seen in the UAE (60%) and Saudi Arabia (62%). Notably, only 11.6% of those surveyed reported not using or having tried a projector.

In the UAE, visual quality emerged as the most crucial element of an ideal movie-watching experience, with 40% of respondents citing it as top priority, followed by sound quality at 33% . Overall ambience and comfort ranked third and fourth, respectively, indicating that consumers prioritise technological advantages above other factors.

Neil Colquhoun, President for Epson META-CWA, said, “We are pleased to see the popularity of large-screen projectors across our markets, as revealed by our survey results, which demonstrate how advancements in technology are driving demand. As technology continues to evolve, becoming even more impressive and accessible, we anticipate demand for ever bigger and better home entertainment experiences.”

Epson conducted the survey in collaboration with Pollfish, sampling 100 respondents per market. Epson sees significant potential to increase market share as consumers discover the phenomenal viewing experiences enabled by technological advancements. Draws for consumers include bigger screen sizes, flexibility and space-saving, portability, customisability and a cinematic feel, enabling a true movie theatre atmosphere at home.

Acer has introduced a new lineup of education-focused products at the BETT 2025 show, underlining its mission to transform the digital learning landscape. The launch includes five cutting-edge product series, thoughtfully designed to meet the needs of modern classrooms, from K-12 to higher education. With a strong focus on durability, eco-consciousness, and adaptability, Acer’s latest innovations are built to enhance learning experiences while reducing environmental impact.

Acer’s latest Chromebook range – featuring the Acer Chromebook Spin 512, Spin 511, and Chromebook 511 – brings classroom computing to a new level. Engineered for durability, these devices are designed to endure the wear and tear of daily academic life. Key features include easily serviceable keyboards, reinforced I/O ports, and impact-resistant structures that meet MIL-STD 810H standards, ensuring they can withstand accidental drops of up to 122 cm.

Integrated features include a Quick Insert key to easily access helpful ChromeOS features, spill-resistant designs, and TÜV Rheinland-certified Eyesafe displays, making these devices ideal companions for students’ demanding school days. The models incorporate PCR (Post-Consumer Recycled) plastic, OceanGlass touchpads made from ocean-bound plastic, are EPEAT registered, and Energy Star and TCO-certified.

The Acer Chromebook Spin 512 will be available in EMEA starting March 2025 at a price of $349. The Spin 511 will start at $329, and the Chromebook 511 will start at $299.

Acer’s new TravelMate laptops, including the TravelMate B5 14, TravelMate B3 11, and convertible TravelMate B3 Spin 12, are designed to meet the dynamic demands of today’s hybrid classrooms. Key durability features such as shock-absorbent bumpers, reinforced brackets, and mechanically anchored keyboard keys which ensure longevity and resilience. Each model is MIL-STD 810H certified and integrates Acer PurifiedVoice with AI-enhanced noise reduction for an immersive and productive online learning experience.

The TravelMate B5 14 features up to an optional 14-inch FHD IPS display and powerful yet energy-efficient performance to enable seamless multitasking. The compact TravelMate B3 11 offers a lightweight 11.6-inch design with various connectivity options, including dual USB Type-C ports. Meanwhile, the convertible TravelMate B3 Spin 12 empowers collaborative learning with its 360-degree hinge, a TÜV Rheinland Low Blue Light-certified display for greater comfort while reading, writing and watching videos plus an optional fast-charging stylus for efficient notetaking.

The TravelMate B5 14 will be available in EMEA from February 2025, starting at $400 +VAT. The TravelMate B3 Spin 12 will be priced at $430 +VAT, while the TravelMate B3 11 will be available at $330 +VAT.

The Acer Chromebook Tab 311 is a simple, affordable, and secure computing experience for students. Featuring a lightweight, durable 610g frame and MIL-STD 810H compliance, it offers resilience against everyday drops and bumps. The Acer Chromebook tablet is also equipped with a heavy-duty 8,000 mAh battery that can provide up to 10 hours of battery life, helping students stay productive throughout long school days.

The Chromebook Tab 311 also supports optional add-ons, including a portfolio case with an adjustable multi-angle stand and a folio keyboard, letting students easily switch between typing, drawing, and viewing modes. Acer Chromebook Tab 311 will be available in EMEA in Q2 2025, starting at $329.

Acer takes multitasking to the next level with the PD3 Series portable foldable monitors. Available in two sizes – 15.6 inches (PD163Q) and 18.5 inches (PD193Q E) – the devices offer a versatile dual-screen setup for educators and students are designed to boost productivity, efficiency and entertainment experiences. Each monitor features a sleek, lightweight design and Dual FHD resolution (2160 x 1080) for crisp text and rich visuals. Acer VisionCare technology helps reduce eye strain during prolonged tasks, while a 315-degree ergonomic hinge enables versatile viewing angles for optimized productivity.

Ideal for multitasking environments, the PD3 monitors can serve as second or third screens, connected seamlessly through HDMI or USB-C. The Acer PD3 Series monitors will be available starting February 2025. The PD163Q will be priced at $399, while the PD193Q E will start at $499.

The Acer PD1520Us ultra-short-throw LED projector brings big-screen learning to even the smallest of spaces. With the ability to project a 100-inch image from mere centimeters, this compact, flexible projector is ideal for classrooms and training spaces and weighs just 740 grams. Enhanced features like Auto 2D Keystone correction, 4K compatibility, multimedia playback, a stable 30,000-hour LED lifespan and interactive app integration help create an engaging, cable-free learning and presentation experience. The Acer PD1520Us projector will be available in EMEA from March 2025, priced at $699. The optional battery kit will be available for $99, and the interactive module for $199.

Epson has launched a new range of stylish and affordable home projectors designed to enhance the entertainment experience for families across the region. The EF-21 and EF-22 projectors boast a modern aesthetic and are equipped with advanced 3LCD technology for vibrant, high-quality images.

Frank Oliveira, Consumer Sales Manager, Epson Middle East said, “These projectors are favoured by many over conventional televisions because viewers can change the screen size as they want, and watch their favourite content in amazing quality on any clear wall or ceiling, making them ideal for movie and serial fans. Drawing upon the superb Epson know-how built into each projector — as seen at the official regional launch at the GITEX 2024 event —these mighty machines allow families to experience high-quality visuals anywhere in their home, all housed in a great-looking and durable device they can enjoy all year round.”

Key features of the new projectors include:

• 3LCD Technology: Delivers bright, vivid images with accurate colour reproduction.
• Long-Lasting Light Source: Offers up to 10 years of maintenance-free viewing in eco mode.
• Compact and Stylish Design: Available in a range of colours to complement any home decor.
• Easy Setup: Features automatic focus, keystone correction, and obstacle avoidance for hassle-free installation.
• Integrated Google TV: Provides access to a wide range of streaming content and smart home features.
• Powerful Audio: Equipped with two 5W speakers for a rich and immersive audio experience.

The EF-21 is available in warm white, smoke ice green, and rose pink, priced at AED 2,999. The EF-22 comes in metallic black or metallic blue and includes an adjustable stand, priced at AED 3,699. Both models offer screen sizes up to 150 inches and are designed for easy home installation and use.