Katarzyna Petru
Samsung has finally showcased a new generation of its portable projector after a long break. The model The Freestyle+ is the third iteration of the device known since 2022, which finally addresses the biggest shortcomings of its predecessors. The list of changes includes higher brightness, new AI features, and a refreshed smart TV system. However, the question remains whether Samsung has actually improved the mobility of its projector.
The first Freestyle debuted in 2022, and a slightly refreshed version appeared the following year. Since then, Samsung has been quiet, while competitors have not been idle. In the meantime, models such as Xgimi MoGo 4, JMGO O3, and Leica Cine Play 1 Plus have emerged on the market, raising the bar in the compact projector segment.
Clearly brighter than before
The most important new feature of The Freestyle+ is the increased brightness up to 430 ISO lumens. This is almost double the 230 ISO lumens offered by the second generation. Previous models were often criticised for having too dark an image, which forced viewing only after dark or in a perfectly darkened room.
430 ISO lumens still do not make Freestyle+ a projector suitable for comfortable viewing in full daylight, but the difference should be noticeable. The image is expected to be clearer, colours more vibrant, and the projector itself less temperamental regarding lighting conditions.
AI improves image and wall matching
Samsung strongly emphasises the new technology AI OptiScreen. It includes:
automatic keystone correction,
auto-focus,
automatic image calibration for wall colour and texture.
The projector analyses the surface onto which the image is displayed and tries to minimise distortions and colour inaccuracies. In practice, it works best on light, neutral walls. With dark or highly saturated colours, the effect may be limited.
For users with traditional projection screens, there is also a Screen Fit function that automatically adjusts the aspect ratio and size of the image to the screen surface.
New Tizen, Bixby and Q-Symphony
The Freestyle+ operates on an updated Tizen system, enhanced with new capabilities from the Bixby AI assistant, which is designed to better understand natural voice commands. There's also support for Q-Symphony, allowing the projector to work with Samsung soundbars, synchronising sound.
Samsung has yet to reveal the full technical specifications, and unfortunately, it does not mention a built-in battery. This is quite disappointing, as competing projectors increasingly offer a battery as standard. Samsung still sells an external battery module as an accessory, which raises costs and limits usability.
Premiere and Price
The Freestyle+ will hit the market in the first half of the year in the UK and other countries. The exact date and price are not yet known, but we should learn more information with the start of CES 2026. Samsung will likely aim for a price of below 1000 pounds, considering the history of previous models.
Samsung The Freestyle Prices – Comparison
Model | USD | AUD | EUR | GBP | PLN |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Freestyle (2022) | ~1,250 | ~1,850 | ~1,150 | 999 | ~5,300 |
Freestyle Gen 2 (2023) | ~1,100 | ~1,650 | ~1,050 | 899 | ~4,700 |
Freestyle Gen 2 – currently | ~540 | ~820 | ~500 | 429 | ~2,200 |
Freestyle+ (forecast) | ~1,100 | ~1,700 | ~1,000 | ~899 | ~4,600 |
Approximate conversions, prices may vary depending on the market and taxes.
