There’s no doubt that Philips makes some of the best TVs out there. One reason for that – the same reason I’ve chosen Philips TVs for a decade now – is Ambilight.
For the uninitiated, Ambilight means LEDs on the back of the TV that change color in real time with whatever is on screen. And in 2023, it will be even better.
At a launch event in Amsterdam, the brand revealed that select models in the 2023 TV lineup will feature Ambient Intelligence V2.
The company explained that it uses an “XYZ light sensor which can now measure the color temperature of light in the viewing room, so the white point of the screen image now exactly matches the real-time tint of room ambient lighting”.
Made possible by the latest 7th Gen P5 AI processor, it will feature on new models such as the Philips OLED808 (below). Philips says the new Ambilight system means the lighting has improved color accuracy and detail for a more immersive experience.
The OLED808 also adds a new, smaller 42-inch size to the range, meaning those who want a smaller OLED panel can now get one from Philips.
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Ambilight Next Gen will also appear on the new OLED+908 flagship (at the top of this article) which you can get in 55, 65 and 77 inch sizes. It features a new ‘META OLED’ panel with a ‘Micro Lens Array’ layer and META brightness boosting algorithm to deliver a maximum potential light output of 2100 Nits, which is a 70% increase while providing a wider viewing angle and improved energy efficiency. .”
Unfortunately, Ambilight V2 won’t feature on Philips’ brand new ‘The Xtra’ range, which will instead get a more basic three-sided version. These sets sit below the OLED models as a more affordable option and above The One models, arriving with Mini-LED technology that bridges the gap between LCD and OLED.
Xtra TVs will arrive in Q3 with the 9308 MiniLED TV which is available in 55 and 65 inch sizes with the 7th Gen P5 processor, a 120Hz, 98% DCI WCG panel with 1000 nits brightness and Bowers integrated sound & Wilkins of 64W 2.1. system.
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Back to Amblight and it now extends across the living room to provide illumination just about anywhere thanks to Ambilight Surround. The press conference details were light (pardon the pun) on the subject, but these are essentially speakers with built-in Ambilight LEDs that will create an even greater stream of light in your room, including behind you .
There will be speakers, a subwoofer and soundbar options which are all wireless and work with all Ambilight TVs. This seems like a step up from the Fidelio speakers with built-in Ambilight announced last year.
If you’re looking for an upgrade or replacement right now, take a look at our roundup of the best TVs.
