Samsung is adding an $899 portable projector to its Lifestyle TV collection; unveiled at CES 2022, the projector is called "The Freestyle" and will be available for pre-order starting January 4

The projector became an "it" item last year as people sought to turn their backyards and blank walls into entertainment centers Now that you know how to build a movie theater in your backyard, you've become the ultimate host and perhaps your child's favorite parent You didn't need the best TV to watch blockbusters at home

Samsung's lifestyle TV lineup already includes The Terrace, an outdoor QLED TV, and the Freestyle Projector seems like a natural progression of the company's non-traditional entertainment options 180-degree rotating cradle is suitable for indoor bedroom ceilings as well as makeshift projection screens in the garden

The Freestyle is capable of projecting 1080p resolution screens on all manufacturers of Samsung's Smart TV platforms from 30" to 100" There are projectors in the same price range that can project up to 150 inches, but the truly portable, high-quality options are quite limited It would also be difficult to find a 4K projector under $1,000

Samsung emphasizes freestyle portability Weighing only 183 pounds, it is light enough to toss into a backpack and take on an adventure, and compact enough to carry with a blanket or bowl of popcorn With an optional waterproof case and a USB-C portable battery for up to two hours of viewing, there are few situations in which the Freestyle won't make a capable companion

No matter where it is placed, the Freestyle's auto-focus and auto-leveling align and optimize the projected content, eliminating the need to set up the projector According to Samsung, the Freestyle can "project on an unlimited number of surfaces," and the only way to enjoy this projector is not just to secure an empty wall Even when placed horizontally on a log or propped up on a bed frame while camping, Samsung suggests that the Freestyle will project a great image

What about sound? The Freestyle has 360-degree sound and far-field voice control It can also be used as a Bluetooth speaker, and if you put a cap over the lens, you can create mood lighting to your favorite tunes I would not expect powerful sound from such a compact device Especially not compared to the sound you get from a surround sound system usually paired with a professional projection system However, for the price and portability, this should suffice

The Freestyle joins Samsung's Lifestyle collection of 2022 TVs, along with an upgraded version of The Frame with a new anti-glare Neo QLED display