Take the show wherever you go with Samsung’s new Freestyle projector

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The Samsung Freestyle projects video or ambient lighting and works as a smart speaker.
The Samsung Freestyle projects images, video or ambient lighting and works as a smart speaker.
Photo: Samsung

At CES 2022, Samsung Electronics showed a new portable screen and entertainment device it’s calling “The Freestyle.” The company also called the device the first of its kind. It’s a small projector and smart speaker that works with iOS and Android devices to stream video or sync audio to ambient lighting.

The Freestyle: Show video anywhere (for a price)

Samsung said it’s targeting Gen Z and millennials with the portable projector, smart speaker and ambient lighting device all rolled into one. The Freestyle weighs 830 grams (29.3 ounces), including its cradle. So, for what it is, it’s lightweight. But at 900 bucks, it’s not so light on the wallet.

The company said the device’s cradle allows rotation of up to 180 degrees, enabling users to show high-quality video anywhere. You could use tables, floors, walls or ceilings, with no separate screen required.

In the video below, the device is shown as an overhead lamp and speaker that projects video down onto a table, as a portable entertainment center for camping and for mirroring TV or another device on the bedroom wall.

“The Freestyle is a one-of-a-kind projector geared towards ultimate versatility and flexibility to meet the consumers’ changing lifestyles,” said Simon Sung, an executive vice president at Samsung. “Without the limitation in space and form factor, the Freestyle is a fun and versatile device that can be used in any way consumers prefer.”

Auto-adjust features

Samsung said The Freestyle comes with full auto-keystone and auto-leveling features. They allow the device to automatically adjust its screen to different surfaces at different angles. That keeps the image proportional. And auto-focus allows the device to display a clear image on a variety of surfaces, at any angle, up to 100 inches in size.

The Freestyle also comes with a dual passive radiator for clean, deep bass sound with limited distortion. The company said the device’s “360-degree sound radiation allows customers to enjoy a cinema-quality sound experience no matter where they are.”

Mood lighting and mirroring options

When it’s not used as a projector to stream content, The Freestyle can provide mood lighting using ambient mode and a translucent lens cap. The Freestyle is also a smart speaker, analyzing the music to pair the projected visual effects.

The Freestyle offers Smart TV features available on Samsung Smart TVs, with built-in streaming services. Its mirroring and casting features work with both iOS and Android devices.

Samsung said it’s the industry’s first portable projector certified by global major OTT partners. And it’s the first to include far-field voice control. The latter lets users choose their preferred voice assistant when using the device hands-free. Currently, The Freestyle works with Bixby and Alexa, but not Siri.

Power options: batteries, light socket or wall plug

The Freestyle works with external batteries that support USB-PD and 50W/20V output or above. So users can take it camping or virtually anywhere.

Samsung said The Freestyle is the first portable screen that works when connected to a standard E262 light socket without the need for additional wiring. It also works with traditional wall plugs.

Available for preorder now in the U.S., Samsung expects to expand The Freestyle to other global markets in the coming months. Currently you can get the case, normally $59.99, for free with purchase of The Freestyle.

Price: $899.99

Where to preorder: Samsung

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