As screens increasingly impact how we work, create, and unwind, the discussion about eye health has never been more crucial and relevant. BenQ’s new addition to its Smart Lighting portfolio, the ScreenBar Halo 2, comes at a moment when professionals, gamers, and content creators are spending more time in front of monitors than ever before. The new ScreenBar, which has its foundation on a human-centric design philosophy, leverages years of display technology progress to solve a straightforward but crucial problem: minimising eye fatigue without sacrificing functionality or aesthetics.

The ScreenBar Halo 2 is the next phase in an eight-year journey that began with the first ScreenBar, integrating optical perfection, superior mechanical construction, and easy control into a single, compact package.

We sat down with Manish Bakshi, Managing Director of BenQ Middle East, to discuss the basic idea for the ScreenBar Halo 2, how its proprietary optical technologies and full-spectrum lighting elevate everyday screen use, and how eye care has become a central pillar of the brand’s purpose in the ever-changing Smart Lighting market.

What is the core vision behind the launch of the ScreenBar Halo 2, and how does it advance BenQ’s mission in the Smart Lighting category?

BenQ is a technology adopter that focuses on creating more and more innovative products, while also moving towards solutions that are more caring for users.

If you look at our interactive flat panels, we have introduced many AI-driven features and specifications that are designed to support teachers, IT administrators, principals, and schools in a more thoughtful and user-friendly way. We have followed the same philosophy across our projector and monitor segments, and today, we are extending this approach to BenQ Smart Lighting solutions.

This launch reflects a strong human-centric approach. We are introducing two models — the ScreenBar Pro and the ScreenBar Halo 2. The concept is very simple. We understand that users spend long hours looking at their monitors, which often leads to eye fatigue and discomfort.

These two models are designed as monitor lighting solutions with multiple built-in specifications, all aimed at one final objective: reducing eye fatigue. They provide reading-area illumination that is adjustable and comfortable for the eyes, powered by our proprietary asymmetrical light optic technology.

There are three major aspects to this product. The first is the optics, which ensure precise illumination. The second is the mechanical design — we use a zinc alloy clamp that can fit monitors of any size, including flat and curved monitors. The third is the controller. The newer model, ScreenBar Halo 2, comes with a wireless controller that allows users to control brightness as well as colour temperature.

Ultimately, what we are offering is a very caring solution for users — whether they are gamers, creators, or professionals — helping reduce eye fatigue during long hours of screen usage. Eye care is the core concept we are promoting through this product.

How does the ScreenBar Halo 2 improve upon the first-generation model?
We first introduced the ScreenBar in 2017, so this category has completed an eight-year journey. The initial model was the Halo 1, and Halo 2 introduces two very distinctive upgrades.

The first is the wireless controller, which allows users to easily adjust brightness and colour temperature. The second is the dual-light design. Halo 2 features both a front light and a rear light, whereas the previous generation only had front lighting.

In addition to this, we are using tri-curvature lightness control at the rear — with illumination from the top, sides, and bottom. This creates a very pleasant contrast between the screen and the surrounding environment, especially the wall behind the monitor.

At the front, we continue to use our asymmetrical light optic technology. With an 18-degree illumination angle, the light is directed precisely onto the desk and work area, ensuring it does not glare onto the screen or strain the eyes.

All these technologies are integrated into a single, compact ScreenBar, helping significantly reduce the discomfort that can arise without such lighting solutions.

What makes the optical technology of the ScreenBar Halo 2 distinctive?
The key differentiator is BenQ’s asymmetrical light optic technology, which is patented. This technology provides an 18-degree angled light illumination that focuses only on the keyboard and desk area, without affecting the screen or creating glare that can strain the eyes.

In addition, we use full-spectrum LED lighting. This helps reduce low blue light emission, which is one of the primary causes of eye strain. By incorporating low blue light technology, the product emits less harmful light, making it safer for prolonged usage.

Overall, this optical technology not only creates a comfortable and well-lit working area but also reduces potential health hazards. It aligns well with modern work habits, where people spend long hours in front of screens and need solutions that actively protect their eye health.