Setting new benchmarks in global projection industry

Andy Zhao, Founder & CEO, Valerion, discusses how the company’s Vision Master Max projector is setting new benchmarks in the global projection industry through innovation, crowdfunding success, and the patented Anti-RGB technology that eliminates the long-standing “rainbow effect.” He also outlines the company’s plans to expand across the Middle East with localized operations and partnerships.

Tell us about the Vision Master Max and what makes it unique among projectors

The Vision Master Max represents a combination of cutting-edge technology, image quality, and aesthetics; that’s what defines its success. We launched the product last year through a crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter, the world’s largest crowdfunding platform. Within just 45 days, we raised 10 million USD, supported by more than 6,000 backers. We made a promise to our supporters, and I’m happy to say we’re now delivering the product as scheduled.

The Vision Master Max is truly innovative; it embodies our vision of bringing cinematic experiences into every home.

AWOL Vision is a relatively young company. How has the journey evolved so far?

Yes, AWOL Vision is just five years old, and the Vision Master Max marks a major leap for us. Our first brand, AWOL Vision, introduced ultra-short-throw projection technology in 2022. Then, last year, we launched the Valerian Vision Master Max, which has become our flagship model.

Where are your products designed and manufactured?

Both design and manufacturing are done in China, while our U.S. team handles marketing, sales, and operations. This global approach allows us to combine precision engineering with strong brand presence and customer support worldwide.

Can you tell us more about the Anti-RGB technology and how it enhances the viewing experience?

When we launched our first ultra-short-throw projector under the AWOL Vision brand, we received valuable feedback from users who noticed a rainbow effect; something that can occur with triple-laser projectors. Although only about 5% of users are sensitive to this, we wanted to eliminate the issue entirely.

After years of R&D, we successfully developed and patented our Anti-RGB technology, which completely removes this effect. The Vision Master Max is the first projector in the world to solve this issue permanently. Early reviews from customers and professional influencers have confirmed there’s no visible rainbow effect, setting a new standard for visual clarity in the industry.

Are other manufacturers approaching you to license this patented technology?

Not yet. No competitors have approached us to license it so far. I think most are trying to find alternative ways to solve the issue themselves rather than paying royalties. But we’ve clearly set the benchmark; after we raised 10 million dollars, everyone in the projector industry started paying close attention to what AWOL Vision is doing.

How do you see the Vision Master Max appealing to Middle East customers?

I designed this product for people who truly love watching movies like myself. No matter where you live, the Middle East, the U.S., or Europe, the lifestyle of enjoying high-quality entertainment at home is universal. I believe many people here share that same passion. The Vision Master Max brings them a premium, immersive experience, and I’m confident it will resonate strongly with this region’s customers.

Could you explain the relationship between Valerian and AWOL Vision?

Both Valerian and AWOL Vision are brands under the same company. AWOL Vision represents our ultra-short-throw projectors, which can project very large screens up to 300 inches, even in limited spaces. It’s designed as a flexible, giant TV replacement for people who love movies, gaming, and immersive viewing at home.

The projector you had displayed at GITEX features your Anti-RGB technology. What screen sizes does it support?

Yes, the Vision Master Max supports screens ranging from 80 inches to 300 inches. The screen itself is made of high-quality ambient light–rejecting material, and it’s scrollable, meaning it can be packed and shipped efficiently without damage, like a rolled-up cylinder.

What are your expansion plans for the Middle East?

We’re in the process of setting up our Middle East office and building a local team. Right now, we’re learning about customer preferences in this region to better customize our offerings. Our products are already available online through Amazon, shipped directly from China, but we’re now looking to partner with regional distributors, especially those specializing in AV products. We have held active discussions with potential partners during GITEX and expect to finalize our local partnerships  soon.

We plan to officially establish our regional office by Q1 next year under the AWOL Vision name.

Do you plan to expand beyond home entertainment into business or professional segments?

Currently, our focus is on consumer markets; home theater, living room, and backyard entertainment. These are the three key scenarios we’re optimizing for. However, in the future, we do plan to enter the business segment with projectors for meeting and conference rooms.

What’s next for AWOL Vision?

Our next major launch will be announced at CES next year. It will include a new short-throw projector line, building on the success of the Vision Master Max. We’re committed to pushing the boundaries of display technology and user experience.

Many of our customers have told us that AWOL Vision is like the “Apple of the projector industry,” and some even compare us to Aston Martin for our innovation and design excellence. We’re proud of that comparison; we aim to disrupt the market with truly premium, innovative products that redefine how people experience visual entertainment.