At CES 2026 in Las Vegas, AWOL Vision introduced the new Aetherion Series, which consists of two 4K DLP ultra-short-throw models, the Aetherion Max and the Aetherion Pro. Not only do the new models look radically different from previous models, but they also include several new features that should significantly improve their image quality.
The main difference between the two units is their rated brightness. The Aetherion Max is rated at 3,300 ISO lumens, while the Aetherion Pro is specified at 2,600 ISO lumens. Both models use a triple-laser RGB light source paired with a newly developed optical engine that minimizes light leakage along the optical path, resulting in deeper blacks and improved on-screen contrast in light-controlled environments. This results in a class-leading native contrast ratio of 6,000:1.
In addition, they include an EBL (Enhanced Black Level) feature that delivers a dynamic contrast ratio of 60,000:1. EBL™ Shadow Refinement combines laser dimming with seven-level iris and video processing to adjust brightness dynamically, improving perceived contrast in darker scenes.
Ultra-short throw projectors are inherently susceptible to pixel misalignment, color fringing, and image softness due to their extreme projection angles and complex optical paths. The Aetherion Series includes AWOL Visions’ proprietary PixelLock technology, designed to address these issues by combining optical and mechanical alignment and digital processing.
The new optical assembly used in the Aetherion Series incorporates a sapphire glass lens with specialized coatings intended to reduce chromatic aberration, maximize sharpness, and improve light transmission. AWOL Vision says these models can be utilized on screens ranging from 80 to 200 Inches. The new model even includes a motorized dust-proof lens cover.
The Aetherion Max and Pro both use a triple-laser light source, enabling wide color gamut reproduction without traditional color filters. Many viewers are sensitive to RBE rainbow effects, which are common in single-chip DLP projectors. AWOL Vision developed Anti-RBE technology that combines optical and processing capabilities to significantly reduce this distracting visual artifact.
The new projectors support all popular HDR formats, including Dolby Vision and HDR10+. The Aetherion Max and Pro also feature Dynamic Tone Mapping (DTM). When viewing HDR10 content, the projectors adjust their HDR tone mapping in real time based on the scene to preserve highlight detail while maintaining shadow detail.
AWOL Vision has also placed considerable emphasis and focus on gaming. The Aetherion Series supports variable refresh rate operation, auto low-latency mode, and high-refresh-rate input, with the company citing “1-millisecond-class input latency at 240 Hz”. The Aetherion projectors also support Dolby Vision Gaming.
Both models offer Gigabit Ethernet and Wi Fi 7 support. These features are intended to support high-bandwidth streaming, cloud gaming, and fast content delivery. Aetherion Series is powered by a MediaTek MT9655 chip with 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of internal storage, the most powerful processor AWOL Vision has used in a Google TV-based projector to date.
The smart platform is based on Google Android TV 14, providing access to a broad range of streaming applications and services. Aetherion Series is powered by a MediaTek MT9655 chip with 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of internal storage, the most powerful processor AWOL Vision has used in a Google TV-based projector to date. The updated operating system is designed to improve system responsiveness, multitasking, and overall user interface performance compared to earlier generations of smart projector platforms.
Aetherion projectors include a high-quality sound system that can be used as a center-channel speaker when integrated into a compatible home audio system. This approach is intended to simplify system layout for UST installations where speaker placement can be challenging due to screen positioning.
AWOL Vision is showcasing the Aetherion Max and Aetherion Pro throughout CES 2026 at its booth in Central Hall. The Aetherion Max is expected to retail for $4,499, while the Aetherion Pro is priced at $3,499. The units are expected to be available in April 2026, with an early crowdfunding campaign scheduled to launch in February. The campaign is expected to include early pricing incentives and bundled offerings ahead of the full retail release.
