Samsung Freestyle+ Hands-On: Great Upgrades with a Dash of AI

Samsung's latest portable projector, the Freestyle+, debuted at CES 2026, marking the third generation of the company's compact projection lineup. This iteration introduces several notable enhancements, from display performance to build quality and intelligent features.

Enhanced Display and Audio

The most immediate improvement is in brightness. The Freestyle+ projects images that are twice as bright as its predecessor, a difference readily apparent in hands-on demonstrations. This boost makes the projector more versatile in various lighting conditions.

Complementing the visual upgrade is the integrated 360-degree speaker, which delivers a commendable sound experience. For gamers, the inclusion of Samsung's Gaming Hub brings support for leading cloud-based game streaming services, including Xbox Cloud Gaming, expanding its entertainment utility.

Redesigned Build and AI Integration

Samsung has revised the device's construction, moving away from a hard plastic shell to a softer, silicone-like plastic material. This change is intended to improve drop protection. Additional side vents have been incorporated to enhance heat dissipation.

True to Samsung's current product strategy, the Freestyle+ incorporates AI capabilities. The AI OptiScreen feature automatically adjusts the picture projection to suit different surfaces, optimizing image quality without manual tweaking. The device also features an improved version of Bixby, powered by large language models, which provides more contextual and helpful suggestions.

Conclusion

The Samsung Freestyle+ represents a solid evolution of the portable projector concept, with meaningful upgrades in brightness, durability, and smart features. Its enhanced AI tools and robust design make it a compelling option for users seeking a versatile, high-quality projection experience on the go.