Do you want to add an immersive Ambilight backlight effect to your home theater like in modern Philips TVs? If you’re using Kodi media player, it’s easy to do with Raspberry Pi and Hyperion Configurator plugin.

What is Ambilight and why do I need it?

Ambilight is a dynamic backlighting technology that extends the image beyond the TV screen using LED strips. It creates an immersive experience, reduces eye strain and makes watching movies and games more atmospheric.

Using Kodi together with Hyperion Configurator, you can turn any TV or monitor into an Ambilight device – without buying expensive TVs with this feature.

Project Components

  • Kodi – a popular open source media player.
  • Raspberry Pi – a mini-computer that will control the backlighting.
  • Hyperion – software to control the Ambilight LED backlight.
  • Hyperion Configurator – a plug-in for Kodi that makes it easy to set up and control the backlight.
  • WS2812b LED strip or similar – an addressable LED strip to create the backlighting.

How it works?

Raspberry Pi with Hyperion installed analyzes the image displayed in Kodi and controls the LED strip, creating lighting effects that match the colors on the edges of the screen. The Hyperion Configurator plugin allows you to conveniently adjust all the settings right from the Kodi interface – change brightness, color, effects, and even switch modes.

Why try it?

  • Improved viewing atmosphere. Spectacular backlighting immerses you in what’s happening on the screen.
  • Easy to customize. The Hyperion Configurator plugin makes it easy to use.
  • Flexibility. You can customize the number of LEDs, effects, and even control the backlight with your voice via Kodi.
  • Savings. You don’t need to buy expensive Ambilight TVs – Raspberry Pi and LED strip are much cheaper.

Where to use it?

  • Home theaters.
  • Gaming areas and streaming rooms.
  • Educational projects and DIY electronics.
  • Gift or creative interior design element.

Whether you want to dive into the details of customization or learn how to assemble an entire turnkey system, we’re ready to prepare a detailed guide and help with component selection.