Anker Reveals New Budget-Friendly Portable Projector: Meet the soundcore Nebula P1i

Anker’s soundcore Nebula P1i Portable Projector (pictured) is on show at CES 2026.

If you've been waiting for a high-quality, truly portable projector that doesn't require a second mortgage, Anker's latest announcement is for you. Following the recent US release of its Nebula P1 model, the tech accessory giant has officially pulled back the curtain on the soundcore Nebula P1i Portable Projector, a feature-packed device poised to shake up the home entertainment market in early 2026.

Rumored since September 2025 alongside its sibling, the P1i is now confirmed, and it brings a compelling mix of smart features and practical design at an surprisingly accessible price point.

Sharp 1080p Picture Meets Clever, Flexible Design

At its heart, the Nebula P1i is a native 1080p (1920 x 1080 pixel) projector. But Anker understands that a great picture is useless if you can't position it properly. That’s why one of the standout hardware features is the built-in adjustable angle stand. This clever addition allows you to tilt the projector up to 12 degrees, effortlessly raising the projected image without the need for makeshift stacks of books or awkward mounting. It’s a small detail that makes a huge difference in everyday use.

With a brightness of 400 ANSI lumens, the P1i is designed for controlled lighting. Think movie nights in the living room with the lights dimmed, presentations in a conference room, or backyard setups after sunset. For bright, sunlit rooms, you’ll want to manage expectations, but for typical evening viewing, it hits the sweet spot.

Smart Setup and Smarter Streaming

Gone are the days of tedious manual adjustments. Anker equips the P1i with its Intelligent Environment Adaptation (IEA) 3.0 technology. This suite of tools includes auto-focus, auto keystone correction, and screen fit, which work together to deliver a perfectly rectangular, sharp image on your wall or screen within seconds of powering on. It’s a boon for anyone who dreads the fiddly setup process of traditional projectors.

For content, Anker has partnered with Google, integrating the familiar Google TV interface. This grants immediate access to thousands of apps from the Google Play Store, including heavy hitters like YouTube, Disney+, and HBO Max. Crucially, the projector is also Netflix certified, meaning you get the full, official Netflix app experience—a feature still absent from many competing projectors.

Audiovisual Flair and Portability Questions

Adding to its charm, the Nebula P1i features unique flip-open speakers that can be rotated to direct sound precisely where you need it. Combined with a sturdy integrated carry handle, the projector has a distinct, ready-for-adventure look.

Check current pricing and see the design for yourself on Amazon.

The main spec yet to be confirmed is whether the P1i includes a built-in battery. This would be the final piece of the "truly portable" puzzle, allowing for use completely untethered from a power outlet. While the handle and compact form factor suggest high portability, the presence of a battery remains unconfirmed by Anker at this time.

Release Timeline and Wallet-Friendly Price

Anker has indicated a target release window of early 2026, though a specific date is still to come. When it arrives, the most eye-catching feature might just be its price tag.

The company has announced a US retail price of just $369. This positions the soundcore Nebula P1i as a significantly more affordable option compared to the $799 Nebula P1, and a competitive player in the budget-to-mid-range projector segment. It promises to deliver core premium features—smart TV OS, automatic corrections, 1080p resolution—at a price that invites newcomers to the projector world without compromise.

*Are you excited about the new Anker soundcore Nebula P1i? Does its combination of Google TV, auto-setup, and a sub-$400 price make it your ideal portable entertainment hub? Let us know in the comments!*