BenQ has introduced the GV50, a portable ceiling projector designed to bring the big-screen experience to the comfort of your bed. With its unique features and specifications, the BenQ GV50 aims to redefine how you enjoy movies, shows, and games without leaving your bedroom. While it is not BenQ's first foray into ceiling projectors, the GV50 stands out as the most advanced model in the company's GV series.

The most notable aspect of the BenQ GV50 is its distinctive design. The projector features a tear-drop shape, allowing the lens aperture to rotate up to 135 degrees vertically and 360 degrees horizontally. This flexibility means you can easily switch between projecting onto a wall and the ceiling, depending on your preferred viewing angle. Whether you're sitting up or lying down, the GV50 offers an adaptable viewing experience.

The design is not only about aesthetics but also about functionality. The BenQ GV50 is compact, measuring 130 x 211.2 x 191.4mm (5.12 x 8.31 x 7.54 inches) and weighing just 2.1kg (4.6lbs). This makes it easy to place on a bedside table without taking up much space. 

Additionally, the projector's two-stage tilt feature helps adjust the angle of projection, ensuring that the image is correctly aligned with your viewing position. The built-in auto screen correction system further reduces the need for manual adjustments, making the setup process hassle-free.

The GV50's performance is a significant upgrade from its predecessors in the GV series, largely due to its laser-based lighting system. This system provides 500 ANSI lumens of brightness, which is sufficient for projecting a 120-inch image in a dark room. 

The laser light source also has a long lifespan, with BenQ claiming up to 30,000 hours of use before degradation becomes noticeable. This longevity is a key advantage over traditional lamp-based projectors, which require more frequent replacements.

In terms of picture quality, the BenQ GV50 delivers Full HD (1080p) resolution, which ensures that the image remains sharp and detailed even at larger sizes. The projector also supports HDR10 and HLG formats, enhancing the dynamic range and color accuracy of the content. BenQ's proprietary CinematicColor technology is incorporated to achieve 92% of the Rec. 709 color gamut, promising a vibrant and lifelike viewing experience.

Understanding that a bedroom setup may not accommodate external sound systems, BenQ has equipped the GV50 with an 18W 2.1-channel audio system. This includes two 4W drivers and a 10W subwoofer, all Dolby Audio-compatible. The system is designed to deliver clear and immersive sound, even when projected downwards from the ceiling. 

The "Ceiling Cinema Sound Mode" is a unique feature intended to optimize audio delivery, ensuring that the sound reaches you without obstruction from bedding or other objects.

The BenQ GV50 is also a smart projector, running on Google TV OS. This allows users to access a wide range of streaming apps such as Netflix, YouTube, and Prime Video directly from the projector. Google Assistant voice control and Google Cast support add further convenience, enabling easy content streaming from various devices. 

For gamers, the GV50 offers a relatively low input lag of 22.4ms, making it suitable for casual gaming sessions, although its 60Hz refresh rate might not satisfy competitive gamers.

Portability is another strong suit of the BenQ GV50. The projector comes with a built-in battery that provides up to 150 minutes of video playback or 280 minutes of Bluetooth music playback on a full charge. This makes it an excellent option for outdoor movie nights or situations where a power outlet isn't readily available. The projector’s USB-C port, which supports DisplayPort Output in DP Alt Mode, can also charge devices like the Nintendo Switch, adding to its versatility.

The BenQ GV50 is currently available in the United States for $599 through Amazon and the company’s official website, with plans for a UK release soon.