Roku and Philips Launch First US TV with Built-in Ambilight: Immersive Lighting Without Add-Ons

Imagine your living room walls pulsing with the crimson hues of a sunset scene or flashing in sync with a concert's pyrotechnics—all without installing external gadgets. That's the promise of the new Philips Roku TV with integrated Ambilight technology, marking its US debut through an exclusive partnership with Sam's Club.

How Ambilight Transforms Viewing

Ambilight uses intelligent LED arrays embedded in the TV's rear to project colors onto adjacent walls that dynamically match on-screen content in real time. Unlike aftermarket solutions like Govee's LED strips, this requires no separate hardware, calibration, or power sources. Roku emphasizes the experiential impact: "Your living room glows green during a game-winning play or casts warm light during a sunset sequence."

Technical Specifications and Ecosystem Integration

The TVs feature 4K UHD resolution with HDR10 support and Apple AirPlay compatibility. As Roku OS devices, they seamlessly pair with Roku's wireless speakers and soundbars. Available in 43", 50", 55", and 65" models (priced $229-$389), these sets target budget-conscious buyers seeking premium immersion.

Strategic Implications

This collaboration accelerates the trend of environmental integration in home entertainment. By embedding Ambilight—previously available only internationally—Philips and Roku sidestep the fragmentation of third-party solutions. For developers, it highlights how TV OS platforms are expanding beyond content delivery into holistic sensory experiences.

The exclusivity with Sam's Club suggests a focus on mainstream accessibility rather than high-end niches. As ambient lighting evolves from novelty to expectation, built-in implementations like this could pressure competitors to adopt similar native integrations.

Source: ZDNET