Katarzyna Petru
Samsung has finally presented the 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. On the list of changes are 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 year later, a slightly refreshed version appeared. Since then, Samsung has been silent while the competition has 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 innovation in The Freestyle+ is the increased brightness of up to 430 ISO lumens. This is nearly twice as much as the 230 ISO lumens offered by the second generation. Previous models were often criticised for their overly dark images, which forced viewing exclusively after dark or in perfectly darkened rooms.
430 ISO lumens still does not make the Freestyle+ a projector suitable for comfortable viewing in full daylight, but the difference should be noticeable. The image is expected to be more readable, colours more intense, and the projector itself less finicky about lighting conditions.
AI improves image and wall fitting
Samsung strongly emphasises the new AI OptiScreen technology. 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 projected and attempts to minimise distortions and colour inaccuracies. In practice, this is best suited for light, neutral walls. With dark or highly saturated colours, the effect may be limited.
For users employing traditional projection screens, there is also a Screen Fit feature, which automatically adjusts the proportions and size of the image to the surface of the screen.
New Tizen, Bixby and Q-Symphony
The Freestyle+ operates on the refreshed Tizen system, enhanced with new capabilities of the Bixby AI assistant, which is designed to better understand natural voice commands. There is also support for Q-Symphony, enabling the projector to work with Samsung soundbars, synchronising sound.
Samsung has yet to disclose the full technical specifications and unfortunately, 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 user convenience.
Premiere and Price
The Freestyle+ will hit the market in the first half of the year in the United Kingdom 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 £1,000, considering the history of previous models.
Prices of Samsung The Freestyle – 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.
