Imagine this: You're in a cramped apartment, surrounded by knick-knacks and clutter. You want a cinematic experience, but a giant TV just won't fit. Enter the Splay, a curious device that flips the script on what we expect from our screens.

The Dual Nature of the Splay

I've always been a tech enthusiast, constantly chasing the next breakthrough in display technology. But home projectors? They never quite did it for me. I mean, they demand a dark room and a blank wall, right? Who has space for that in a tiny, jam-packed home? Not me, that's for sure. But the Splay offers something different, a twist in the tale of home viewing.

It's not just another screen; it's a shapeshifter. Funded by a Kickstarter campaign back in 2021, the Splay is the brainchild of Arovia. They call it the "first fully collapsible monitor and projector." Big words, but here's the deal: It's a portable projector with an attached fabric shroud, doubling as a big-screen monitor. The shroud makes it a 24.5 or 34.5-inch portable display, and if you strip it away, you're left with an ultra-short-throw projector that casts up to an 80-inch picture on your wall. Versatile? You bet.

Not Your Average Projector

Let's be clear, the Splay isn't here to knock OLEDs or high-end LCDs off their pedestals. At its core, it's still a projector, and at $1,300, it's an investment. But it's currently sold out, and Arovia promises a restock this month. So, there's definitely interest, even if it's not a replacement for top-tier displays.

How does it work? Arovia's patent details a device that's as much about portability as it is about projection. The Splay features a collapsible screen made of flexible silicone or rubber, materials chosen for their wrinkle resistance and optical properties. It's designed to collapse and expand with ease, making it ideal for anyone on the go.

Who Needs the Splay?

Arovia mentions a range of uses for the Splay: mobile workspaces, gaming, trade shows, and enterprise environments. It's a tool for the modern age, where work and play happen anywhere and everywhere.

In the end, the Splay isn't just about redefining what a projector can be. It's about meeting a need that's been quietly growing in today's world. People want flexibility without losing quality. And while the Splay might not be the ultimate solution for everyone, it's a step in an exciting direction. So, whether you're setting up in a cozy corner or taking your display on the road, the Splay is ready to roll with you.