The Splay is a subpar monitor but an exciting portable projector

While the allure of new display technologies captures my attention, I've always been skeptical about home projectors. They often fall short of the image quality offered by high-end TVs and monitors, and their operational needs can be quite demanding. Typically, achieving the best results with a projector requires a dark room and a spacious, blank wall—conditions that can be challenging to meet, especially in compact, decor-rich living spaces. Nonetheless, projectors present a compelling alternative for those seeking a space-saving option to traditional large-screen TVs or even for outdoor movie nights. When matched with the right environment, a projector can prove to be a versatile solution. Enter the Splay, a unique creation from Arovia, which has been heralded as the “first fully collapsible monitor and projector.” Crowdfunded in 2021, the Splay is essentially a portable projector that features an integrated fabric shroud, allowing it to function as a sizable monitor measuring either 24.5 or 34.5 inches diagonally, depending on the variant. This innovative device can also be transformed into an ultra-short-throw projector, capable of projecting images up to 80 inches diagonally onto a wall. At its heart, the Splay is fundamentally a projector, which means it doesn't quite measure up to premium LCD-LED or OLED monitors in terms of image quality. Priced at $1,300, the Splay is currently sold out, but Arovia has indicated that it will be restocked this month. According to Arovia’s patent, the device features a collapsible design with a housing member that includes a sliding mechanism and a flexible, wrinkle-resistant screen that enhances image display when expanded. Arovia's representatives highlighted the Splay's potential for various applications, including mobile workspaces, gaming, and professional settings like trade shows, showcasing its adaptability in different environments.