Samsung’s The Freestyle Makes a Global Splash Following January Launch
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By Samsung Newsroom
Samsung Electronics today announced that it will unveil a brand film starring BTS “SUGA” on October 5. As Samsung’s ambassador, SUGA will show how he uses The Freestyle 2nd Gen, Samsung’s latest versatile portable projector, in his own unique way. The film is to be unveiled on Samsung’s social media accounts including its Youtube channel.
▲ BTS SUGA shown using The Freestyle 2nd Gen instead of a monitor
In the film, SUGA emphasizes that “You’ve got the freedom to use The Freestyle anytime, anywhere. No others, only SAMSUNG!” as he demonstrates how he enjoys the portable projector.
▲ A scene from the brand film starring SUGA
Previously at IFA 2023 held in Berlin, Germany, SUGA surprised visitors as he greeted them from a display screen, inviting them to experience The Freestyle 2nd Gen.
▲ SUGA greeted visitors at Samsung Electronics’ booth at IFA 2023
The Freestyle is Samsung’s light, portable projector which recently debuted its 2nd generation model. The Freestyle 2nd Gen aims to redefine portable screens with its newly added “Smart Edge Blending” feature and “Gaming Hub” compatibility.
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By Samsung Newsroom
Small enough to be held in one hand while boasting a sensational design, The Freestyle has gained attention in the portable projector market since its launch in 2022. Samsung recently released The Freestyle 2nd Gen, an upgraded portable projector that is making imagination a reality.
Samsung Newsroom sat down with Wonki Kim from Lifestyle Team, Seongwon Seo from Picture Quality Solution Lab and TJ Kim from Future Planning Group of Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics to hear about the characteristics and development of The Freestyle 2nd Gen.
▲ Smart Edge Blending demonstration video
No Compromise for ‘Smart Edge Blending’
Smart Edge Blending is one of the biggest upgrades in The Freestyle 2nd Gen. The feature seamlessly merges projections from two The Freestyle devices to create a large screen for pictures and videos. By connecting the two devices to the SmartThings app and synchronizing the video output with a photo of the projected screens, users can enjoy a full-screen experience from anywhere.
“Edge-blending is a sophisticated technology that usually requires dedicated hardware and software to manually control each pixel,” said Seongwon Seo. “In line with the easy-to-use concept of The Freestyle, we engineered Smart Edge Blending to help first-time users easily blend screens wirelessly, without a dedicated device or help from an expert.”
▲ Smart Edge Blending can be used through the SmartThings app.
When Smart Edge Blending is activated, the connected smartphone will engage with The Freestyle portable projectors in real time. Content sync and adjustment processes take place automatically via communication between the devices. “Screen alignment can easily be done using the SmartThings guide when a user captures a picture of the projected screen. The analytic algorithm will analyze the span and overlap of the patterns at eight main points on the setup screen and then adjust the projection on each device,” he explained.
▲ The Freestyle 2nd Gen with Smart Edge Blending on display at IFA 2023
Smart Edge Blending was born out of user pattern analysis. “We found that consumers tend to use The Freestyle as a highly portable personal screen in whatever space they are in — whereas the living room TV would be for fixed, communal use. In fact, there were many cases where single households would purchase several projectors,” said TJ Kim. “When you have more than one device, why not combine them?”
By connecting The Freestyle devices, users can enlarge their screen by up to 160 inches and enjoy a 21:9 screen ratio with no further manual adjusting. Speaker capacity is doubled and intensified with the choice of dedicating the left and right stereo sound output to each device to create a more immersive audio experience.
▲ (From left) TJ Kim from Future Planning Group and Seongwon Seo from Picture Quality Solution Lab
“What’s charming about Smart Edge Blending is that it can be expanded not just horizontally but vertically as well,” said Seo. “This feature is even more useful with the rise of vertical content such as Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts. Most consumers are used to viewing ultra-large horizontal content at movie theaters but are not quite familiar with ultra-large vertical content. But it’s actually quite nice once you try it.”
Nonetheless, there were challenges during development. The original plan was to only support still images, since video requires extensive computing power and real-time alignment. In early stages, the setup also required a high-resolution picture of the projection as well.
▲ Seongwon Seo from Picture Quality Solution Lab explains how the complex Smart Edge Blending technology was built for anyone.
“It is an extremely difficult task to get two wireless devices to continuously be in sync. While The Freestyle development first started with still images, we couldn’t give up on videos because that’s what more consumers prefer watching with our device. Using a wire to hook up the devices was unthinkable given the highly mobile concept of The Freestyle. We supported the engineers until, one day, they managed to achieve the unthinkable,” said TJ Kim.
“Writing an algorithm that can analyze low-resolution images is a very demanding task — but we felt a sense of relief when we finally succeeded,” he added. “At first, it seemed impossible to minimize the margin of error between the two projections. The strict internal standard doesn’t even allow a single-pixel margin of error. Our breakthrough ultimately resulted from an assumption model that could accurately determine the state of projected setup patterns from low-resolution pictures.”
Staying True to Concept While Adding Fun
Through Samsung Gaming Hub, The Freestyle 2nd Gen supports gaming — a content form that was once unimaginable to enjoy on a portable projector. The addition of Samsung’s cloud gaming platform frees users from the limitations of consoles, wires and fixed screens such as smart TVs and monitors. “Gaming is one of the entertainment types that really highlights the portability of The Freestyle,” shared TJ Kim. “Users can now enjoy games through Samsung Gaming Hub anytime and anywhere, without a console.”
▲ Visitors at Samsung’s IFA 2023 booth test cloud games available on Samsung Gaming Hub with The Freestyle 2nd Gen.
Updates were made for added sustainability. “The light source life has been extended from 20,000 to 30,000 hours,” said Wonki Kim. “With 30,000 hours, The Freestyle can support a demanding eight hours of use per day for 10 years.” The Freestyle’s remote control was also upgraded to a SolarCell Remote that can be charged with sunlight or indoor lighting, eliminating the need for disposable batteries.
Processing speed was revamped too. Compared to the first model, The Freestyle 2nd Gen’s memory has been expanded to speed up signal processing and remote control response. By testing usage scenarios during development, the device’s UI and UX were improved immensely to make the projector accessible to anyone.
▲ Wonki Kim from Lifestyle Team underscores compactness, portability and usability as the reasons behind the popularity of The Freestyle among young people.
Screens Everywhere as a Strategy
With the vision of “Screens Everywhere, Screens for All,” The Freestyle 2nd Gen prioritizes portability and mobility to enable users to experience the benefits of a movable screen.
“Although it’s clearly a hassle to set up, the tripod has become such a natural part projectors — so much that no one thought twice about it,” said TJ Kim. “We envision a projector without a tripod or other accessories. That’s how The Freestyle 2nd Gen came to life.”
▲ The Freestyle 2nd Gen on display in a caravan at IFA 2023
The creators behind The Freestyle continue to dream. “As we work to achieve ‘Screens Everywhere, Screens for All,’ we’re constantly planning innovations around Samsung’s projector lineup — The Freestyle and The Premiere. Our goal is to move beyond simply targeting the existing market and present a new screen experience for everyone,” shared Wonki Kim.
“We plan to continue addressing the limitations of space and strengthen connections among various Samsung devices to generate meaningful synergy,” added TJ Kim.
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By Samsung Newsroom
Samsung Electronics announced that The Freestyle is included in 2022’s Oprah’s Favorite Things holiday gift list featured on OprahDaily.com and in the Winter issue of O Quarterly, on newsstands November 1. The Oprah’s Favorite Things annual list is a must have holiday shopping guide with the most decadent desserts, ingenious gadgets and finest finds in home, fashion and beauty. This marks the fifth time a Samsung TV has been selected, with The Freestyle joining The Serif, The Frame, Q7FN QLED TV and most recently, The Terrace in previous years.
This year’s list features a variety of wonderful items for you and your loved ones, most of which have been selected from small businesses. To shop the full list of items, please visit: https://www.oprahdaily.com/oprah-favorite-things-2022. The Freestyle is available for purchase at www.samsung.com and in the Oprah’s Favorite Things gift guide exclusively in Amazon’s store at amazon.com/oprah, as well as via the Amazon shopping app for customers to conveniently shop anytime, anywhere. As Oprah says on OprahDaily.com, “Point onto any wall to turn it into a big screen. You can use your favorite streaming apps from it, and it’s got powerful speakers, just like a movie theater.”
The Freestyle offers first-of-its-kind technology and flexibility that lets users watch TV, enjoy movies and even have a lightshow wherever they go. The Freestyle is a portable display, smart speaker and ambient light all rolled into one lightweight, portable device. Its versatile cradle allows rotation of up to 180 degrees, enabling users to show high-quality video anywhere — tables, floors, walls or even ceilings — no separate screen required. With the optional battery base and case (sold separately), The Freestyle provides entertainment everywhere, with no limitations.
“The Freestyle is a one-of-a-kind portable entertainment device that provides the ultimate versatility by letting users take it in anywhere,” said Stephen Coppola, Senior Director, Lifestyle TV Product Marketing at Samsung Electronics. “The Freestyle is a fun and adaptable portable display that can be used in many creative ways. On the ceiling before bed? Outside on the fence while roasting treats? The sky is the limit!”
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By Samsung Newsroom
Summer is the perfect time to go camping. While on-the-go, some convenient, outdoor entertainment can take your camping experience to the next level. Whether you want some music, a movie or just a little ambient lighting after the sun goes down, The Freestyle is the perfect companion for your next camping trip.
Portability in a Sleek and Compact Design
If you want to explore the great outdoors comfortably and in style, The Freestyle is a must-have item in your bag. With its compact size and lightweight, a mere 830 grams, this portable projector is super convenient to pack.
The Freestyle also allows you to personalize your device with a variety of different color skins to choose from, including Blossom Pink, Forest Green and Coyote Beige. It can also be easily changed to match your aesthetic preference or the rest of your camping set up for a more customized color experience.
When packing The Freestyle, use the device’s carrying case to transport it with ease. The case is IP55-rated, meaning it can protect against water and dust and is ready to be used in the great outdoors. In addition, the case was designed to be just as compact as The Freestyle itself, allowing you to safely take The Freestyle wherever you go.
Auto Screen for a Quick and Hassle-Free Set Up
After setting up your campsite, fiddling with another piece of equipment is the last thing you want. Luckily, setting up The Freestyle is hassle-free — simply place it on a surface and press the power button.
The Freestyle automatically adjusts the level, focus and keystone as soon as you touch the power button. The portable screen automatically adjusts the screen using the Easy Set Up function, providing a clear, straight picture with an optimized ratio of 16:9.
From Cooking to Watching a Movie: Enhance Your Camping Experience With The Freestyle
Want to make a delicious meal on-the-go? Expand your outdoor cooking options with The Freestyle. The Freestyle helps you explore the best ways to make food at your campsite with access to online cooking tutorials and recipe videos, all displayed on a large screen that’s scalable.
The Freestyle, supported by Tizen OS, comes with over-the-top (OTT) services and streaming platforms, including Netflix and YouTube allowing users to watch various content as if they are at home. Samsung TV Plus also delivers free shows, movies and live TV without a subscription — all you need is an internet connection and you are good to go.
Optimized Charging for Convenient Outdoor Entertainment
The Freestyle is compatible with external batteries that support USB-PD and 50W/20V output or above. This allows users to take The Freestyle anywhere they go — whether they are away from home, on a camping trip or otherwise out and about. It also has a specialized portable battery base fit with The Freestyle. It supports 3.6V charging and comes with a 32,000mAh charging capacity, enabling you to project your favorite content for up to 3 hours without needing a separate charger. The Freestyle also lets you stay connected while in the outdoors, with two USB-C ports that allow you to charge your smartphone while watching content.
Create Memorable Camping Experiences With Scalable Screens
The Freestyle lets you create unique experiences, setting the mood for any occasion. With The Freestyle’s cradle, the device also freely rotates up to 180 degrees, allowing you to find the perfect position without moving it.
It’s easier than ever to create a scenic window view or a relaxing virtual fireplace to make your camping trip much more cozy, memorable and entertaining.
Bring Coloring Books to Life With The Freestyle and Its Accessories
The Freestyle isn’t just for the adults in the family — kids can also use the projector to bring coloring books to life while on-the-go. Use The Freestyle to project their favorite characters, animals or even a family photo taken during the trip to create a one-of-a-kind, customizable coloring book.
Place The Freestyle on the stand and adjust it to the desired height. The Freestyle can project images from various angles, making it effortless for kids to enjoy.
Capturing Unforgettable Moments With The Freestyle’s Big Screen Experience
Bring the camping crew closer together by sharing photos and fond memories. To do this, simply mirror your Android or iOS device to The Freestyle and take a walk down memory lane with family, loved ones and friends alike.
Create the Perfect Ambience With The Freestyle’s Ambient Mode and 360 Surround Sound
Not only can The Freestyle project an image on the screen, but the device’s lens cap can also diffuse light to create a softer, more ambient vibe. After a long day of outdoor activities, set up The Freestyle and choose an optimal color to relax and unwind.
Sound is a critical element when creating ambiance. The Freestyle’s premium built-in speakers deliver rich 360-degree sound to provide an immersive audio experience without any external sound devices. Worried about disturbing your neighbors? Connect up to two Bluetooth sound devices and listen to music or watch movies comfortably without disturbing anyone else.
Today, there are so many camping accessories to make the experience not only more convenient but also more fun without any extra effort. With a wide range of features and functions, The Freestyle is the perfect addition to your next camping trip, helping to revamp your camping experience and make it more memorable.
* Some of the images shown are for illustration purposes only.
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By Samsung Newsroom
Since the launch of Samsung Electronics’ all-new portable screen at CES 2022, The Freestyle has received rave reviews for its spectrum of usage that is as versatile and flexible as the product name suggests. The Freestyle offers first-of-its-kind technology that can be used anywhere, anytime, according to the user’s lifestyle, preferences and personal style.
Samsung Newsroom has put together a guide to showcase how The Freestyle goes beyond the scope of conventional projectors to deliver a truly immersive entertainment experience.
1. The Bigger, The Better: Scalable Screens for Homes of Any Size
When it comes to your TV screen, bigger is always better. But what if you live in a small space? Now, the Freestyle makes big-screen streaming easier than ever, no matter how much space you have. Enjoy watching content on a large screen (up to 100 inches) anytime, anywhere. Using the Scale & Move feature, you can scale the projected display size up to 50% and move the screen without ever moving the projector.
For sports fans, a large screen is a must. With The Freestyle, you can still experience the game-day atmosphere, even if you’re not there in person — simply invite friends over and cheer for your favorite team while enjoying The Freestyle’s large screen and high-quality sound as if you were at the match. You can elevate your viewing experience for whatever you watch, from sports commentary to remote concerts and nature documentaries.
Often, there are days when you miss your family home. Why not take a trip down memory lane by browsing your family photo albums using The Freestyle’s mirroring feature for Android and iOS devices? Through smartphone mirroring, you can even video call your friends and family on a large screen. Light up your wall with heartfelt memories and stay connected to your loved ones, even when you’re far apart.
2. Travel Far, Pack Light: Portable Screens Perfect for Outdoors
If you want to explore the great outdoors in comfort and style, The Freestyle is a must-have item in your bag. With its compact size and minimal weight at only 830 grams, this portable projector is super convenient to pack. With The Freestyle, you can create your own space for watching content anywhere, whether indoors or outdoors.
What if you’re watching your favorite movie at home, and you suddenly need to leave your house? As long as you take The Freestyle with you, you can resume your movie from where you left off at your new location. Whether it’s your friend’s place, a hotel abroad, or even outdoors, now it’s easier, faster and more convenient than ever to stream your favorite content as if you are at home. Using the Tap View feature in the SmartThings app on your smartphone, simply connect The Freestyle to your mobile device to access the exact User Interface of your Samsung Smart TV.
There’s nothing like enjoying a cool summer night watching movies in the backyard or at a campsite. Whether you’re making memories with your kids or spending time with friends, The Freestyle can turn any campsite into a movie theater — no screen required. Simply use one side of your tent for a bright and clear viewing experience. No campfire? No problem. Project a video of a fireplace for a cozy night under the stars.
3. Find Your Sweet Spot: Entertainment for Anywhere in Your Home
Even if you love to stay at home, it doesn’t mean you’re limited to watching everything in one spot. Stream a movie with your family in the living room, and then take The Freestyle with you when you want to watch something in your bedroom. Designed for portability, The Freestyle automatically adjusts the level, focus and keystone as soon as you touch the power button for a quick and hassle-free setup.
The Freestyle also freely rotates up to 180 degrees, allowing you to find the perfect position without moving the projector. Easily change the angle to display content anywhere in your home, whether it’s on the wall, the ceiling, the floor, or the table. You can also power on and off the device using only your voice, so it’s perfect for when you’re ready to fall asleep. You can ask questions, listen to music, or open apps with ease using voice commands.
If you love decorating your home, you can also add ambiance to your room with The Freestyle. Even if you don’t have a white screen or a clear wall to use, you can still enhance your space with mood lighting effects, artwork and more. Create your own unique home interior by projecting something onto the curtains or blinds, adding style and personality to your living space.
4. Life of the Party: Customizable Features Worth Celebrating
Whether you’re a holiday party planner to a weekend-hangout organizer, if you want to host an event, The Freestyle offers features that are something to celebrate. When it’s not being used as a projector, The Freestyle has an ambient mode that allows you to customize your space with mood lighting effects. Instead of using a placard, you can use the Freestyle to create a photo zone for your party instantly. Blast your favorite playlist through The Freestyle’s speaker and turn your get-together into a night you’ll never forget.
With high-quality sound and Bluetooth connectivity, The Freestyle is great choice to play music at your next party. Comparable to the high-performance portable Bluetooth speakers out in the market, The Freestyle’s powerful built-in speakers deliver rich 360-degree sound, so you can experience immersive audio from wherever you’re sitting. By playing your favorite artist onscreen, you can quickly transform your living room into your very own concert venue.
The Freestyle also offers a variety of colors that give users the freedom to express their unique style down to the smallest detail. It’s easy to upgrade the look of your projector with soft, protective rubber covers in colors for every occasion, such as Blossom Pink, Forest Green, Coyote Beige and more.
The Freestyle goes beyond the capabilities of regular devices to give you the freedom to customize and consume content wherever, whenever and however you want. This ultraportable, smart TV projector combines high-quality visuals and immersive audio to deliver an entire entertainment experience. Transform your space and express yourself with the infinite possibilities provided by The Freestyle, made to fit your lifestyle.
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