With the flexibility to fit a variety of rooms and spaces, a projector can be a good choice for those who don’t want to spend a lot of money on a TV. Now, a certain TCL projector is getting a notable upgrade to its software that brings the Google Gemini AI Assistant to the device. The new update may even be another reason why you should ditch your TV in favor of a projector – or the use of AI may make it a reason to wait, depending on your opinions.
TCL’s PlayCube is already unique in that it features a 360-degree rotating design that allows it to be contorted to fit a variety of surfaces or even ceilings, and now the company is offering new Google-backed AI features that will begin rolling out to PlayCube owners this week. Google’s Gemini assistant heavily expands upon many of the features offered within the PlayCube in four different areas (Ask, Learn, Brief, and Create), allowing users to ask questions about media, take visual deep dives, get more information about news and sports, and even generate media.
Although the PlayCube originally relied on Google Assistant for similar functionality, it’s worth noting that there are other projectors in the wild that also offer Google Gemini options. However, TCL says it has additional plans with Google to bring similar functionality to more of its displays. Naturally, the TV maker hasn’t forgotten about TVs, as TCL Google TVs also received a free visual upgrade in May 2026.
The TCL PlayCube expands its features with this Google Gemini update
With 1080p visuals powered by a 0.33-inch DMD (digital micromirror device) chip and 750 lumens of brightness, the TCL PlayCube offers three hours of playback thanks to a 66 Wh battery. Designed for portability, the projector will benefit from the addition of Google Gemini with expanded software capabilities and general versatility. Google’s AI agent offers users four major additional features, many of which focus on content and information.
One of the big draws of the Gemini integration will be TCL’s Ask Modes, which will allow users to converse more naturally with the machine while providing better recommendations or even adjusting preferences to be more family-oriented. Users can even ask questions about their favorite shows. Brief mode, on the other hand, organizes content into a feed that gives users information and highlights from their favorite channels. Additionally, Create will allow users to leverage generative AI to produce projectable images or videos, with video arriving through Google’s Veo. Finally, Learn can generate diagrams and images, among other content, to help explain difficult topics.
Those looking for options should know that TCL isn’t the only company offering Google Gemini with a projector, as Epson gave access to its Lifestudio Gemini projectors in early 2026. This includes the Epson Lifestudio Grand Plus. However, the Grand Plus costs $3,799.99 while the PlayCube costs around $799. Of course, be sure to do your research before purchasing anything, especially since there are some common mistakes people make when purchasing a projector.
