After televisions, it’s time for projectors to get smart. BenQ’s new GV30 is one such smart portable projector that comes packed with the goodness of Android TV. This means you get access to Google Play’s entire suite of apps – which includes apps such as YouTube, Amazon Prime, Disney+, and lots more.

The GV30 also is one of the first projectors to accompany a 2.1-channel Bluetooth speaker setup. This setup includes one speaker each on either side of the projector and a subwoofer. This is brilliant since the speakers offer that extra bass and punch to take your viewing experience to a whole new level.

In terms of design, the projector offers a very modern design that fits perfectly into the overall décor of your living room. The overall build quality is top-notch, something we have come to expect from a brand like BenQ.

Once you remove the outer packaging the device comes packed in, you come across a very good quality carry case. This carry case includes everything – the GV30 projector, the remote control, and the power adapter. The inclusion of the carry case is quite thoughtful since it lets you securely stow away the projector after each use.

On the side of the projector, you will find all the ports. This includes the power port, a USB-C DisplayPort, a full-size HDMI port, and the 3.5mm audio jack. Since this is an Android TV projector, you get an Android TV dongle included in the packaging.

To install the Android TV dongle, you need to remove the cover from one side of the projector. You will then find a separate compartment within to install the dongle and connect it to a dedicated power outlet within the projector. Doing all of this takes just minutes.

Once you are done, switch the projector on, and you are now ready to watch content immediately. The BenQ GV30 also offers automatic focus and keystone correction. So, once you switch on the projector, it will automatically set up everything for you – no need to mess around with the setting menu or manually adjust the keystone and the focus.

The BenQ GV30 is an LED projector – the LED bulb offers around 30,000 hours of watch time, which roughly translates to about 8 years of use if you were to watch around 10 hours of content every day. The projector also comes with a built-in battery that offers a battery life of 2.5 hours. Of course, it can also be powered using the bundled power adapter.

The projection size offered by the GV30 ranges between 30-inches and 100-inches, depending upon the distance between the projector and the projection area. The resolution offered by the GV30 is 720p – it would have been nice if it were at least 1080p. The projector also offers an aspect ratio of 16:9 and a brightness of 300 lumens.

Even though the resolution supported is only 720p, the quality of the projection by the GV30 is quite good. Whether it is watching movies, playing games, or even browsing through YouTube, everything looked good. Since this is an Android TV-based projector, it supports casting through Android phones and AirPlay on iOS devices.

The BenQ GV30 is also probably the first projector we have come across that supports 135-degrees of projection angle. This means, while the GV30 supports projection on walls, it also supports projection on the ceiling if you were to watch a movie lying down on your bed, for instance.

This is made possible by the magnetic base of the projector which makes changing the angle of projection, a child’s play. On the top of the projector, you get four buttons, which include the power on/off, volume controls, and the Bluetooth selector button.

The projector offers a good overall picture and sound quality. For a price of AED 2499, the BenQ GV30 isn’t cheap. However, if you are on the market that offers portability with a good selection of features and great performance, the BenQ GV30 could match your needs.

Price: AED 2499

Acer has announced the expansion of its Predator gaming portfolio with new Predator Orion 7000 series desktops, featuring powerful performance in a stunning design, and two smart 4K gaming projectors. Further enhancing the gaming experience is the Predator gaming desk, which offers two practical surface options and a convenient storage rack.

“Predator Orion 7000-series desktops are premium, powerful rigs for serious players who demand incredible performance from even the most demanding titles,” said Jeff Lee, General Manager, Stationary Computing, IT Product Business, Acer Inc. “In order to offer that next-level performance, we’re excited to be among the first companies bringing the new 12th Gen Intel Core CPUs to our product portfolio.”

“12th Gen Intel Core desktop processors are a huge innovative leap forward for game performance and industry-leading memory, I/O and connectivity,” said Marcus Kennedy, General Manager of Gaming and Esports, Intel. “Powering the pinnacle of its performance is the new performance hybrid architecture that combines two all-new compute cores to deliver blistering performance for high frame rates and multi-tasking performance that modern gamers expect.”

Predator Orion 7000
The powerful new Predator Orion 7000 series (PO7-640) gaming desktops provide users with everything necessary to take on the latest generation games—and the next. Designed for hard-core gaming enthusiasts, these new upgradeable gaming PCs will be equipped with the latest 12th Gen Intel Core overclockable processors, up to NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3090 series GPUs^[], and up to 64 GB DDR5-4000 RAM.

The stunning, EMI-compliant chassis features transparent, tempered glass side panels showcasing two 140 mm (5.5-inch) Predator FrostBlade 2.0 front fans and a third 120 mm (4.7-inch) Predator FrostBlade 2.0 rear fan that can be lit with a dazzling array of ARGB colors. The top of the Orion 7000’s case features an opening, making it possible for users to replace this 120 mm (4.7-inch) fan with a 240 mm (9.45-inch) one, while integrated PredatorSense software lets gamers control the ARBG lighting, fan speed and overclocking. Accenting the bold lighting and design are an illuminated teal blue Predator logo on the chassis’ front and an easily accessible teal prism-refraction power button on the system’s top.

Beyond these eye-catching aesthetics is exceptional thermal management, with the three aforementioned Predator FrostBlade 2.0 fans in addition to an AIO liquid CPU cooler and advanced airflow management to effectively cool system components. The FrostBlade fan’s thin and curved blades are designed to smoothly increase airflow without causing turbulence and to quickly dissipate heat. In addition, the fan’s wear-resistant and fully-sealed rifle bearings prevent lubricant leaks and the ingress of dust in order to maintain stability and extend the computer’s lifespan.

Intel Killer 2.5G LAN gives gamers a competitive edge by detecting and prioritizing game traffic over other network traffic, resulting in smoother and faster connectivity for online games and streaming media. Intel WiFi 6E (AX211) and 2×2 MU-MIMO technology provide fast and secure wireless connectivity. A gaming beast, the Predator Orion 7000 provides plenty of ports for leveraging the latest gaming accessories. On the chassis’ front for quick access are three USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A, one USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type C, and two audio jacks. On the back, there are three USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, one USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C, two USB 2.0 ports, and three audio jacks.

Featuring ample storage, the rig includes a 2.5-inch USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C hotswap drive bay, 2x M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVIMe SSDs (up to 1 TB each) and two 3.5-inch SATA3 HDD (up to 3 TB each).

Predator GD711 and Predator GM712 Gaming Projectors
The Predator GD711 is a smart 4K LED gaming projector that is compatible with both console and PC gaming systems. The projector also features a built-in app market that offers users access to a variety of streaming services. The Predator GD711 features a wide color gamut that amounts to 125% the area ratio of Rec. 709, covering most of the color space within the gamut in addition to a significant area outside of it to offer gamers impressive levels of color saturation. 4,000 LED lumens of brightness, high dynamic contrast, and HDR10 performance ensure that content looks brilliant.

The projector includes several modes that users can shift between depending on their mood. Standard mode offers 4K (3840 x 2160) resolution for enjoying movies and videos in sharp detail, while two game modes—one for bright scenes, another for dark ones—let users pick frame settings optimized for the aesthetics of the game they’re playing. The Predator GD711 projects images with a variable refresh rate mode of 1080p@120 Hz for consoles or up to a blazing fast 1080p@240 Hz for PCs, delivering buttery smooth performance even in the busiest of scenes. Furthermore, projecting at just 23 dBa when in ECO mode, this game-ready home theater won’t break your immersion, either.

The Predator GD711 features a throw ratio of 1.22, which means it supports a wide range of throw sizes. Acer’s recommendation is a 100-inch screen thrown from just 2.70 m (8.85 ft). It also comes with the convenience of a 10W speaker and remote control that has an antimicrobial coating on its surface and buttons. Excellent airflow dissipates heat, helping to deliver a long 30,000-hour lifespan. Connectivity options include two HDMI 2.0 ports for PCs and consoles, audio out for an extra speaker and three USB Type-A ports: One for the projector’s hidden wireless dongle, another for connecting wireless accessories, and another for DC 5V-out that also enables users to update the device’s firmware.

For users who prefer lamp-based projectors, the Predator GM712 is also available with 4K resolution and 3,600 ANSI lumens of brightness.

Predator Gaming Desk
The large 55-inch Predator gaming desk (PGD110) provides ample room for a gaming system, monitor, accessories, and more. Gamers can choose from two surfaces: one coated in easy-to-clean, stylish carbon fiber or another covered with a custom-designed Predator mouse pad. Outfitted with ample storage space, the Predator gaming desk comes with a rack for storing gamepads and/or cartridges, a headphone hook, a cup holder, and a tray tucked in the back for AC adapters. It also has the convenience of a headset cradle to save desk space, a cup holder to prevent spills, and a cable management cutout on each side of the desk to keep cables organized and out of the way. The desk is sturdy with the ability to hold up to 120 kg (264 lbs).

Pricing and Availability
The Predator Orion 7000 (P07-640) will be available in EMEA in Q1’22 starting at EUR 2,199. The Predator GD711 Projector (GD711) will be available in EMEA in December starting at EUR 1,499. The Predator GM712 Projector (GM712) will be available in EMEA in January 2022 starting at EUR 1,399. The Predator Gaming Desk (PGD110) will be available in EMEA in December starting at EUR 229.

Acer has announced upgrades across its projector and monitor ranges, bringing new options to gamers and home entertainment enthusiasts. The new 4K laser projector brings high performance and high ECO efficiency to the mainstream market. Two new monitors are also available, one with a WQHD IPS display for prosumers who work and play at home and another with a WQHD 300 Hz panel for gamers.

“The pandemic has changed how people are approaching work and entertainment,” said Victor Chien, President, Digital Display Business, Acer Inc. “People who do their work on notebook computers are investing in monitors, and more families are exploring home cinema technology. We’re doing our best to respond flexibly and meet that new demand.”

Acer L811 Laser Projector
The Acer L811 is an ultra-short-throw laser projector that offers HDR10-compatible 4K resolution and 3,000 lumens of brightness for an incredible home-theater experience. Capable of offering a 120-inch projection from only 0.312 meters (1.02 feet), the device defeats space limitations, making it possible to fit a big screen into a small room. The excellent image quality is further enhanced by a 2,000,000:1 contrast ratio, allowing for deep blacks, while Acer LumiSense technology analyzes content on a frame-by-frame basis then dynamically adjusts brightness levels to provide the best image quality possible.

Content can also be projected in 3D at 144 Hz 24P via 3D Blu-ray. The projector comes preloaded with an app market that enables users to enjoy a variety of streaming services, social media platforms, and more, right out of the box—no wires necessary. Users can also wirelessly mirror content via Miracast if using Android or Windows devices, or via EShare if using iOS or Android. Low input lag, an option for 240 Hz at 1080p, and two built-in 10W speakers enhanced with Acer TrueHarmony technology enhances the quality of video and audio, while Acer’s EcoProjection technology reduces standby power consumption by up to 66% in order to extend the laser’s lifespan to 30,000 hours.

The projector also supports 24/7 continuous projection, providing users with dependable and high-quality projection when they need it.
With an IP6X “dust-tight” certification, the highest grade available for solid particles, the L811 is a very durable projector that offers reliable performance even in dusty or outdoor environments. From there, users can adjust keystones and each of the projection’s four corners in order to easily accommodate existing mounts or wall space and suit their unique living space.

Nitro XV2 Series
The Nitro XV272U KF is a 27” WQHD monitor that boasts a 300 Hz refresh rate for seriously smooth visuals. AMD FreeSync Premium Technology further enhances visual performance by varying the display’s refresh rate to match that of the GPU, eliminating choppy gameplay. A low 0.5 ms (G-to-G) response time[] further improves image quality by virtually eliminating the blur of fast-moving objects on the screen to enable lightning-fast reactions to gameplay, while Acer Black Boost technology makes it easier to pick out details such as hidden enemies when in darker environments.

VESA DisplayHDR 600-Certified, the monitor takes advantage of 90% coverage of the DCI-P3 color gamut and Delta E<1 color accuracy rating to make games look more lifelike. Acer’s Agile-Splendor IPS panel provides high contrast and vivid colors even at wide viewing angles, while Acer Vision Care 3.0 technology brings several features that may help reduce eye strain during prolonged usage for a more comfortable viewing experience. For example, Acer LightSense detects the amount of ambient light in an environment and adjusts the display’s brightness accordingly, and Acer ColorSense matches the display’s color temperature to that of the surrounding environment. Additionally, the monitor is TÜV/Eyesafe certified.

The Nitro XV272U KF monitor sits on an Ergostand that allows users to find the perfect viewing angle by adjusting its tilt, height, swivel and pivot. It also includes the Acer Display Widget, a tool that allows gamers to automatically adjust color settings and choose from a range of 11 preset screen-snap configurations to simplify the process of keeping multiple windows tidy.

Acer CB273U Monitor
The Acer CB273U is a 27” WQHD (2560×1440) IPS monitor that displays vivid 8-Bit colors, making it great for photo editing and design. HDR10 support allows for deeper blacks and more brilliant whites, presenting colors in Delta E<1 color accuracy. For creators who enjoy playing games on the side, AMD FreeSync makes gameplay smoother and decreases lag for virtually blur-free images, further enhanced by a 1 ms Visual Response Boost (VRB).

Acer’s CB3 Series monitors support 178-degree wide viewing angles and feature a docking station so users can create a perfect, clutter-free workspace that only has to be set up once. The dock includes a 90W USB Type-C port that supports power delivery for notebooks, an RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet port, and a built-in KVM switch that makes it possible to switch between desktops and laptops without having to change monitors, keyboards, or mice.

The monitor is TÜV/Eyesafe certified and includes a variety of techniques to allow for the most comfortable viewing experience possible, including Acer BlueLightShield Pro technology, Acer Flickerless technology to eliminate screen flickering, and Acer’s low-dimming[] technology. Allowing for even further personalization, the monitor’s Ergostand allows users to find the perfect viewing angle by adjusting its tilt, height, swivel, and pivot.

The Acer L811 projector (UL5630) will be available in EMEA in November at EUR 2,599. The Nitro XV272U KF monitor will be available in EMEA in November at EUR 1,149. The Acer CB273U monitor will be available in EMEA in November at EUR 449.