TCL’s PlayCube: A Twistable Google TV Projector Inspired by Rubik’s Cube
▼ Summary
– TCL’s PlayCube is a uniquely designed portable projector inspired by a Rubik’s Cube, featuring two blocks that twist up to 90 degrees for flexible projection.
– It projects at 1080p resolution with adjustable screen sizes from 30 to 150 inches and runs on Google TV for app support.
– The projector has a 750 ISO lumen brightness, a 5W built-in speaker, Bluetooth 5.0, a 3.5mm jack, and a 66Wh battery providing about three hours of viewing per charge.
– It is compact and portable at 5.9 × 3.8 × 3.8 inches and 2.7 pounds, but has limited 16GB storage for offline content.
– The PlayCube is priced at $800, with a coupon reducing it to $730, and is available for pre-order with shipments expected between September 21st and October 13th.
The portable projector market is crowded, but TCL’s PlayCube carves out a distinct identity with its unconventional, toy-inspired design. Drawing direct inspiration from the Rubik’s Cube, this Google TV-powered device features two interlocking blocks that twist up to 90 degrees, offering flexible projection angles. It supports screen sizes from 30 to 150 inches, though it caps out at a 1080p resolution.
What truly sets the PlayCube apart is its playful yet functional aesthetic. TCL has openly embraced its creative process, even publishing a detailed blog post explaining the design journey. Under the hood, the specs align more closely with mainstream portable projectors aimed at casual and outdoor use. It delivers 750 ISO lumens, outperforming many competitors in its category despite not being the brightest option available. Audio is handled by a built-in 5W speaker, but users can also connect external devices via a 3.5mm jack or Bluetooth 5.0.
Battery life is respectable, with a 66Wh cell providing around three hours of playback. A 30-minute fast charge adds an extra hour of runtime, making it suitable for movie nights or presentations on the go. The device runs on Google TV, giving users access to a wide range of streaming apps, though the 16GB of storage may limit offline downloads. An HDMI port offers a handy workaround for connecting other media sources.
Weighing just 2.7 pounds and measuring 5.9 × 3.8 × 3.8 inches, the PlayCube is genuinely portable. However, its innovative design comes at a cost. It’s currently available for pre-order at $800, though a coupon brings the price down to $730. Shipments are expected between September 21 and October 13. While other projectors like the XGIMI Horizon 20 target a higher-end market with a $1,700 price tag, the PlayCube aims to blend fun, function, and affordability in a uniquely designed package.
(Source: 9to5 Google)
