The days of the traditional television dominating the living room may be numbered. Epson is making a compelling case for a shift with the release of its new Lifestudio Grand Plus ultra short throw (UST) projector, a device designed to deliver a cinematic experience without the bulk of a large-screen TV. Announced today, the Grand Plus builds on Epson’s existing Lifestudio line, aiming to be a true all-in-one home entertainment hub.
UST projectors have been steadily gaining traction as viable alternatives to TVs, particularly for those seeking larger-than-life viewing experiences. The appeal lies in their ability to project a sizable image from just inches away from the wall, eliminating the need for extensive mounting and wiring. Epson’s latest offering takes this concept a step further, packing in enhanced brightness, a larger projection range, and integrated premium audio, all while introducing the power of Google TV and Gemini AI.
A Brighter, Bigger Picture
On the surface, the Lifestudio Grand Plus shares similarities with the original Lifestudio Grand introduced in late 2024. Both projectors utilize 4K PRO-UHD pixel shifting technology, a 3-chip 3LCD laser system, and support for HDR10 content to deliver a sharp and vibrant image. However, the “Plus” model boasts a significant upgrade in brightness, reaching 4,000 lumens compared to the previous model’s 3,600 lumens. This increase in luminosity translates to a clearer, more vivid picture, especially in rooms with ambient light. Android Authority notes this improvement is key for daytime viewing.
Beyond brightness, the Grand Plus expands the projection size capabilities, now supporting images up to 150 inches diagonally, up from 120 inches on the original model. This larger screen size further enhances the immersive experience, making movies, games, and sporting events perceive more engaging. The projector’s ultra-short throw design means it can achieve this expansive image from a distance of just inches from the wall, fitting seamlessly into most living spaces.
Sound by Bose and the Power of AI
Epson is positioning the Grand Plus as a complete entertainment solution, and a key component of that is audio. Like its predecessor, the Grand Plus features a built-in 2.1-channel sound system engineered by Bose. This eliminates the need for external speakers, simplifying setup and providing a high-quality audio experience right out of the box. The integrated sound system is a significant advantage for those looking to streamline their home theater setup.
Perhaps the most forward-looking addition to the Grand Plus is its integration with Google TV and, notably, Gemini, Google’s AI model. The projector is among the first to ship with these features, offering users a more intuitive and intelligent viewing experience. While Google TV provides access to a vast library of streaming apps and voice control functionality, Gemini promises to enhance navigation and content discovery. Epson has confirmed that the Gemini features will be rolled out to other Lifestudio models later in 2026, signaling a broader commitment to AI-driven entertainment.
Pricing and Availability
The Lifestudio Grand Plus is available for purchase now, priced at $3,799.99. It comes in both black and white finishes, allowing consumers to choose a model that best complements their home décor. The original Lifestudio Grand remains available for $2,699, providing a more affordable entry point into the world of UST projection. The price point positions the Grand Plus as a premium offering, targeting consumers who prioritize image quality, sound, and smart features.
The growing popularity of UST projectors reflects a shift in how people consume entertainment. As screen sizes continue to increase and technology improves, these projectors are becoming increasingly attractive alternatives to traditional televisions. The Epson Lifestudio Grand Plus represents a significant step forward in this evolution, offering a compelling combination of performance, convenience, and smart features.
Looking ahead, Epson plans to continue expanding the capabilities of its Lifestudio lineup with further software updates and AI integrations. The company has not yet announced specific timelines for these updates, but has indicated a commitment to ongoing innovation in the UST projector space. Consumers interested in learning more about the Lifestudio Grand Plus and other Epson projectors can visit the company’s website at epson.com.
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