Samsung The Frame Pro: The Future of Artful TVs

Samsung has revolutionized the television industry by creating models that resemble artwork rather than traditional technology. With the introduction of The Frame Pro, Samsung aims to merge aesthetics with high performance.

Since its debut, Samsung’s The Frame has garnered immense popularity, inspiring numerous imitations from other manufacturers seeking to produce TVs that harmonize with home decor while transforming into stunning wall art when not in use. However, none have matched Samsung’s success.

In 2025, Samsung is set to combat these knockoffs with The Frame Pro. While it has always excelled in design, the previous model lacked in terms of brightness and picture quality. Now, advancements promise to enhance these areas significantly.

Two key upgrades define The Frame Pro. Firstly, Samsung is incorporating Mini LED technology, which is touted to enhance contrast, brightness, and black levels. The original Frame model lacked local dimming capabilities, but this new version aims to improve upon that.

However, it’s essential to note that The Frame Pro’s Mini LED implementation differs from standard models. Typically, Mini LED TVs feature multiple small dimming zones behind the screen for precise lighting control. In contrast, The Frame Pro utilizes Mini LEDs positioned at the bottom of the panel, claiming to offer some form of local dimming. This raises questions about its effectiveness, as it may still operate similarly to an edge-lit TV.

Additionally, The Frame Pro boosts its maximum refresh rate from 120Hz to 144Hz, providing PC gamers with even smoother visuals. However, Dolby Vision support is still absent, much to the disappointment of many.

The Frame has always been a compromise; perhaps you have a partner who is reluctant to display a plain black rectangle in your living room. Thus, you agree to settle for The Frame. After learning about The Frame Pro, I hoped it would provide a more fulfilling solution.

Yet, the caveat surrounding the Mini LED technology tempers my excitement. Similar to previous versions, The Frame Pro features a matte finish that enhances the appearance of your selected artwork while disguising the fact that it’s a screen. However, matte displays can sometimes diminish visual impact, making authentic Mini LED backlighting a significant missed opportunity.

The second significant enhancement is the removal of the wire connecting The Frame Pro to Samsung’s breakout box, which houses all HDMI inputs and processing power. The transition to a fully wireless connection provides a sleeker appearance by minimizing cable clutter. The Wireless One Connect Box, now supporting up to Wi-Fi 7, eliminates another giveaway that The Frame Pro is indeed a television. The only remaining concern is concealing the power cord. Samsung claims this wireless connection operates effectively at distances of up to 10 meters, even with obstacles.

The Frame Pro also includes an array of AI-powered features akin to Samsung’s other 2025 TVs. This year, AI is a focal point, with a dedicated remote button for activating Click to Search, allowing users to identify actors in scenes, locations, and even clothing worn by characters, as detailed in Samsung’s press release.

A new Samsung Food feature can identify dishes on screen and provide recipe suggestions. Moreover, Samsung is enhancing its AI-driven picture and sound optimization, with AI also extending to accessibility features like Live Translate, capable of translating closed captions on live broadcasts in up to seven languages.

The critical question remains: what will be the cost of The Frame Pro? How much more will it be compared to the standard model? Samsung has not disclosed pricing details, which are expected closer to the spring shipping date. If the company sets a price too high, it could diminish the appeal. However, for those already considering a version of The Frame, the existence of The Frame Pro is undoubtedly exciting.