Philips 'Ambilight' TVs finally come to US with built-in lightstrip, but without Google TV [Gallery]

Philips is finally bringing its neat “Ambilight” TVs to the US market, with Roku TVs available starting today with their built-in lightstrip effect.

Ambient bias lighting is a popular thing to add to TVs and monitors. By putting a light behind the screen to bounce off of a wall, you not only get a cool effect, but it’s also easier on your eyes. This is usually handled with a lightstrip or light bar, but Philips has been making “Ambilight” TVs for a few years now that do the same thing without any additional hardware.

Now, they’re finally coming to the US.

The first Philips Ambilight TVs launching in the States will be powered by Roku and sold through Philips’ website and at Sam’s Club.

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Roku explains the Ambiliight effect saying:

Philips Ambilight TVs sold in Europe primarily run Google TV, but that’s not the case, at least for now, in the US market, and it’s unclear if that will change with time.

Philips will be selling sets in 43-inch, 50-inch, 55-inch, and 65-inch sizes. Prices land at $229, $259, $329, and $389, respectively, with all four sets now available at Sam’s Club.

Alongside the Philips partnership, Roku is also today launchinga month-long “Stream & Screen” collection for Halloween-themed movies and TV shows.

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