For the casual observer, the Philips Ambilight is the most eye-catching technology in the Dutch manufacturer's top-range TVs. Depending on the specific model, the TVs with this technology illuminate the wall behind them in two, three, or all four directions. Philips has been offering this technology since 2004. Unlike the traditional "TV lamp", the Philips Ambilight varies depending on the picture's contents - it takes on the image's prevailing colors.

The Philips Ambilight - seen here on the 47-inch Philips 47 PFL 9703 D.

Of course, the system is clearly another clever way to persuade customers to choose a Philips. But the idea behind it is correct: Watching TV in the dark puts strain on your eyes. Ceiling lamps, or a table lamp beside the couch, are no alternative - the glow from such lamps will reflect off the TV's screen and irritate the viewers. Glowing from behind the display, Philips' Ambilight avoids dazzling the viewer, and will not be reflected by the screen. It enlarges the perceived area of the picture, and TV viewing becomes more relaxed.

Previously, the Philips Ambilight used fluorescent lamps as a light source, but more recent versions use LEDs instead - these not only react faster, but also save energy. Customers can also turn the technology off - if, for example, the TV is standing in the middle of the room, the Ambilight will have no effect anyway.

The following were involved in producing this article on the Philips Ambilight:

Author(s): Karl-Gerhard Haas
Editor in Chief: Florian Friedrich
Photos: AV T.O.P. Messtechnik GmbH
Last update: September 2009