The Philips OLED809 isn’t just another OLED TV; it’s a statement. Arriving on the scene with promises of enhanced brightness, improved image processing, and the ever-enticing Ambilight technology, it aims to be a comprehensive entertainment solution. But does it deliver on that ambition? We’ve put it through its paces to find out.

The centerpiece, of course, is the OLED panel itself. The 809 utilizes a W-OLED panel, boasting excellent contrast, inky blacks, and vibrant colors. Philips’ 8th Gen P5 AI Intelligent Picture Engine works overtime to deliver sharp, detailed images, upscaling lower-resolution content with impressive finesse. Color accuracy is generally excellent, particularly in Filmmaker Mode, offering a faithful reproduction of the director’s intent. Brightness, a common OLED concern, has been noticeably improved compared to previous generations, making HDR content genuinely impactful, even in moderately lit rooms. However, while the panel’s uniformity is commendable, subtle banding can occasionally appear in dark scenes, though this is more of a nitpick than a deal-breaker.

Philips has opted for a minimalist, Scandinavian-inspired aesthetic with the OLED809. The slim bezels practically disappear, drawing your attention solely to the screen. The sleek metal stand provides a stable base without being overly obtrusive. Build quality feels premium, with solid materials used throughout. The remote control, while functional, still feels a bit plasticky compared to the overall premium feel of the TV.

Running on Google’s Android TV platform, the OLED809 provides access to a vast library of streaming apps, games, and other content. Navigating the interface is generally smooth and responsive, although occasional slowdowns can occur. Chromecast is built-in, adding further convenience. But the star of the show remains Ambilight. This innovative feature projects colors from the screen onto the surrounding walls, creating an immersive and dynamic viewing experience. While some may find it distracting, it’s undeniably unique and a signature element of Philips TVs. Gamers will also appreciate the HDMI 2.1 ports with support for 4K/120Hz, VRR, and ALLM, ensuring a smooth and responsive gaming experience.