The Samsung CU7000 isn’t here to break your bank account, just your boredom. This budget-friendly champion brings vibrant visuals and smart features to your living room without demanding a kidney. Sure, it won’t win tech awards for mind-blowing specs, but its everyday performance might surprise you.
The CU7000 punches above its weight, even at a down-to-earth price. But is it truly a worthy successor to its 2021 predecessor? Dive into our detailed review and discover if the CU7000 deserves a starring role in your home theater.
Design & Build
The Samsung CU7000 has a sleek and minimalist design, with slim bezels around the screen. The TV is easy to set up, as the legs can be attached without screws. The legs are sturdy and provide good stability for the TV. The TV can also be wall mounted, but you will need to buy a mount and screws separately. My unit didn’t come with any screws, and sourcing them is easier said than done in my neck of the woods.
The rear port layout includes 3 HDMI, 1 USB port, optical audio port, and antenna port. The HDMI ports support Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC), which allows you to control connected devices with the Samsung One Remote. However, the HDMI ports do not support HDMI 2.1, which means you will miss out on some advanced features like Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM). The USB port as well is USB 2.0, so there’s that.
Remote Control
The One Remote takes a minimalist approach, ditching the button overload of older Samsung remotes. It’s light, comfy, and a breeze to navigate. But let’s talk nitpicks: the Play/Pause button feels redundant and I can’t say I have actually used it at all. The settings button as well is cryptic. Pressing it doesn’t actually take you to the full settings, but rather quick settings. Getting to the full settings take a few more taps than I am comfortable with. And what are those colorful buttons? If I have to pick up the manual to understand a dumb remote, I’ll gladly pass.
On the bright side, Anynet+ lets you control your HDMI devices with one click – perfect for my Chromecast and Xiaomi box. Just don’t expect fancy features like voice control or solar charging, which live on pricier models.
Overall, the One Remote is a step forward, but a few tweaks could make it truly shine. Here’s hoping Samsung reads my humble submission!
Tizen Interface
The Samsung CU7000 runs on a simplified version of Samsung’s 2023 Tizen OS. The interface is basic, with limited app access and some navigation quirks. For instance, the app icons are pint-sized, yet the featured app content tiles, when you scroll down, are three times as big. Why doesn’t Tizen maintain consistency across the board?
Also, you cannot access downloaded apps directly from the home screen. Instead, you have to scroll through a long list in the app store to find the one you want. Additionally, the teal color scheme feels dated.
I also don’t understand why accessing the full settings isn’t more straightforward. You have to first tap on quick settings and then scroll to find the full settings icon. Lastly, from the home screen, some settings cannot be changed until you’re in an app.
Under the hood
The Samsung CU7000 has an Edge LED backlight with a VA panel and a 60Hz refresh rate. The Edge LED backlight means that the LEDs are placed along the edges of the screen, rather than behind it. This results in light bleed and uneven brightness across the screen, especially in dark scenes. The VA panel means that the TV has good contrast and deep blacks, but poor viewing angles. The 60Hz refresh rate means that the TV can display up to 60 frames per second, which is fine for most content, but not ideal for fast-paced gaming or sports.
The TV has a Crystal Processor 4K that handles upscaling and basic processing. The upscaling is excellent, as it improves low-quality video content to near-4K quality. The processing is decent, as it reduces noise and enhances colors and details. However, the processing can also introduce some artifacts and blur in fast-moving scenes.
The TV supports HDR10+, which is a dynamic HDR format that adjusts brightness and contrast on a scene-by-scene basis. However, the TV does not support other HDR formats like Dolby Vision or HDR10. The TV also misses out on advanced HDR features like VRR and HDMI 2.1, which are important for gaming consoles like the PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X.
The TV has occasional lag during navigation, especially at startup. The interface can take some time to load and respond to commands. That’s to be expected though. The CU7000 is an entry-level offering after all.
Picture Quality
For its price point, the CU7000 delivers vivid, yet natural colors and deep blacks that pack a punch, thanks to the VA panel and local dimming. This contrast glows in most scenes, offering a satisfyingly immersive experience.
However, the Edge LED backlight casts a slight shadow: light bleed. In dark scenes, particularly around bright objects, these halos can intrude on the inky depths. Adjusting brightness and contrast in “Halle Bailey’s Angel” helped, but couldn’t completely banish the light contours.
Fortunately, the CU7000 wields a weapon against motion woes: judder removal. Whether it’s a classic movie or a vintage game, this hero can smoothly render up to 60fps, preserving cinematic flow and banishing jerky movements.
Sound
The Samsung CU7000 has OTS Lite (Object Tracking Sound Lite), which provides a standard audio experience for casual viewing. OTS Lite uses two down-firing speakers to create a virtual surround sound effect that follows the movement of objects on the screen. The sound quality is decent, with clear dialogue and balanced sound.
The TV supports DTS Audio and Adaptive Sound adjustments. DTS Audio enhances the sound quality of DTS-encoded content, while Adaptive Sound adjusts the sound settings based on the content and environment. However, the TV does not support native Dolby Atmos or DTS, which are immersive audio formats that use overhead speakers to create a 3D sound effect.
The TV has a unique feature that allows you to pair it with compatible soundbars for enhanced audio. It synchronizes the TV speakers and the soundbar speakers to create a more immersive and powerful sound. However, you will need to buy a Samsung soundbar separately to use this feature.
Screen Mirroring
The Samsung CU7000 has seamless native casting from Windows 10/11, Android, and Apple Airplay. You can easily mirror your laptop, smartphone, or tablet screen to the TV without any additional devices or apps.
The TV also supports Chromecast, but only for YouTube and Chromecast-compatible websites. You cannot cast other apps or content from your device to the TV using Chromecast.
What I love about it is how seamless the whole process is. If you have used Vidaa, you’d know how frustrating it can be at time to mirror your screen.
Verdict
The Samsung CU7000 is a solid budget TV offering with decent picture quality, basic smart features, and reliable performance. It lacks the bells and whistles of higher-end models, but excels in upscaling and screen mirroring. It is a good choice for everyday TV viewing and good enough for gaming but not exactly for HDR content. You can buy the Samsung CU7000 for $279.99 on BestBuy and Target .
Sydney Mugerwa is a seasoned consumer tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with a passion for reviewing the latest gadgets and smart devices. From smartphones and wearables to smart home products and cameras, Sydney breaks down the complexities of consumer tech, making it easy to understand through detailed reviews and how-to guides. His mission is to simplify tech jargon and help readers make informed decisions in the ever-evolving world of technology.
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Talkio Mobile , Uganda’s newest telecommunications service provider, is excited to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Banana Life Investments, a leading chain of mobile phone and retail shops. This strategic alliance aims to bring Talkio’s innovative telecom services closer to Ugandans.
This collaboration will leverage Banana Life Investments’ extensive retail network of 26 stores strategically located across Uganda in major malls, towns, and cities to provide customers with unparalleled convenience. Through this partnership, Talkio Mobile will offer its full suite of services, including SIM cards, airtime, and exclusive product offerings at any Banana Life Investment location.
This partnership is more than a business initiative—it’s a shared commitment to transforming lives. By integrating Talkio Mobile’s forward-thinking services & nationwide reach with Banana Life Investments’ retail footprint, the two brands are setting a new standard for customer convenience and inclusivity.
READ ALSO: 5 Things You Need to Know About Talkio Mobile: New Telecom Company in Uganda
“This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission of connecting Ugandans to innovative and transformative telecom solutions,” said Vianne Allan Ahura, CEO of Talkio Mobile. “By leveraging Banana Life Investments’ trusted presence and nationwide footprint, we are not only expanding our agent network but also bringing our services closer to the communities we serve. This collaboration ensures that our online customers can now enjoy a seamless offline experience right at their doorstep. Together, we are empowering Ugandans with the tools they need to stay connected, grow their businesses, and unlock new opportunities.”
Solomon Ssemuyaba, the assistant general manager at Banana Life Investments, echoed this sentiment: “We are proud to join hands with Talkio Mobile to deliver innovative, customer-centric solutions. This partnership represents our shared vision of fostering a connected future for Uganda. Together, we are redefining what convenience and accessibility mean for our customers.”
The partnership goes beyond retail distribution, introducing joint initiatives aimed at value addition and personalized service. Customers can expect seamless access to:
- SIM Card Sales : Available at all Banana Life Investments locations.
- Talkio phone number bookings : Book your preferred Talkio number at any Banana Life Investments location.
- Airtime Services : Recharge easily through in-store purchases.
- Customer Support : Friendly and knowledgeable staff trained to assist with Talkio Mobile products and services.
Additionally, the two companies plan to launch promotional campaigns and expand services to even more locations, ensuring no Ugandan is left behind in the digital transformation.
Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]
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The Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona , the world’s largest exhibition for the mobile industry, has just concluded. This annual event gathers leading technology brands to unveil groundbreaking mobile, AI, and digital solutions innovations. At MWC 2025, TECNO showcased a range of AI-driven products, reinforcing its commitment to cutting-edge technology.
The key launches included:
- CAMON 40 Series – AI-powered smartphones with One-Tap FlashSnap and advanced mobile imaging features.
- MEGABOOK S14 – The world’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring AI-enhanced multitasking and Snapdragon® X Elite.
- MEGABOOK T14 Air & K15S – Lightweight ultrabooks with AI capabilities and extended battery life.
- TECNO AI Glasses Series – Smart eyewear integrating AI imaging, translation, and AR display.
Jan Stryjak, Associate Director at Counterpoint Research, shared, “In the past year, we have observed significant advancements in the field of AI. AI will continue to drive transformative changes in our daily lives. In this critical period for the economic development of emerging markets, TECNO’s AI technologies are unlocking potential for diverse needs.”
“The application of AI technologies is crucial and urgent in emerging markets. We’re committed to bridging the digital gap between emerging and mature markets,” said TECNO CMO, Laury Bai. “TECNO is taking a practical approach to make AI more accessible, ensuring users in emerging markets can access AI and cutting-edge technologies.”
Laury Bai, TECNO CMO
Driven by its commitment, TECNO has forged a robust partnership with MediaTek, establishing a joint AI laboratory dedicated to accelerating advancements in AI. At the event, James Chen, Vice President of Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek, emphasized, “The synergistic R&D efforts between TECNO and MediaTek are set to democratize AI technology. Our collaboration powers a seamless, interconnected AI experience, bringing users a future of truly connected intelligence.”
James Chen, Vice President, Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek
CAMON 40 Series Powered by AI One-Tap FlashSnap Revolutionizes Smartphone Snapshot Photography
TECNO’s Global Product Launch Officer, Olivier Mas, officially unveiled TECNO’s next-generation AI-driven products. Attendees at TECNO’s launch event witnessed the highly anticipated debut of TECNO’s new CAMON 40 Series, a device that embodies TECNO’s legacy of excellence in mobile imaging. Featuring One-Tap FlashSnap Mode and TECNO AI, the series sets a new benchmark in smartphone photography, delivering exceptional snapshot capabilities and AI-enhanced user experiences.
Olivier Mas, TECNO Global Product Launch Officer
The CAMON 40 Series exemplifies a commitment to innovation that transcends hardware and software, extending into strategic partnerships that deliver cutting-edge AI solutions to emerging markets. Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud, remarked, “Our collaboration with TECNO on the CAMON 40 Series is a standout example. Leveraging Google Cloud’s capabilities, we’ve introduced groundbreaking features such as Ask Ella, AI Image Generator, AI Writing, and AI Translate. I am particularly impressed by the industry-leading and competitive edge of some of these innovations. For instance, TECNO’s AI supports text translation in 136 languages, voice translation in 44 languages, and photo translation in 51 languages. We are excited to further strengthen our partnership with TECNO, unlocking limitless potential to bring advanced yet practical AI capabilities to emerging markets in a convenient and secure manner.”
Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud
The CAMON 40 Series’ innovative One-Tap FlashSnap leverages AI to enhance imaging capabilities, revolutionizing mobile photography. AI optimizes camera startup and continuous shooting for instant captures, while AI-powered multi-frame processing intelligently reduces noise and enhances details, delivering sharper, more refined images. Additionally, the BestMoment algorithm analyzes motion patterns, automatically selecting the optimal frames for precise, high-quality shots in dynamic scenarios, ensuring users an unparalleled mobile imaging experience.
TECNO CAMON 40 Demonstrates the Cutting-Edge FlashSnap Capability
To delve deeper into the imaging prowess of the CAMON 40 Series, TECNO invited Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK, to share the image performance of CAMON 40 Pro. Frédéric highlighted, “The CAMON 40 Pro 5G has demonstrated exceptional imaging and performance capabilities in our rigorous evaluations. We’ve been particularly impressed with photo performance being the best for devices under 600$, and the 1st eligible device to our Smart Choice Label.”
Onsite photo of Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK
Beyond its advanced rapid-capture functionality, the integration of TECNO AI further enhances the device’s capabilities. Intelligent imaging, a 360° AI Call Assistant, and productivity tools elevate creativity and efficiency. Powered by MediaTek’s latest chipsets, the series ensures smooth performance, fast processing, and extended battery life. With a sleek, durable, and water-resistant design, it seamlessly blends style with practicality for modern users.
MEGABOOK S14, the World’s Lightest 14-inch OLED Laptop, Inspires Creators and Game Lovers
The MEGABOOK S14 is TECNO’s first OLED laptop and the industry’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring a 2.8K OLED display and incredibly weighing only 899g (31.7oz). The laptop is equipped with the outstanding power of the Snapdragon® X Elite compute platform, the flagship chipset for AI PCs from Qualcomm Technologies, and integrates TECNO’s world’s first self-developed edge-side large-scale AI model, to achieve AI-enhanced multitasking.
World’s Lightest 14-inch Laptop MEGABOOK S14
Specifically designed for next-gen AI productivity, TECNO AI enhances the Ella AI Assistant, AI-powered PPT generation, AI-driven image search, smart albums, and offline meeting transcription with multilingual support. The External Graphics Dock, equipped with a powerful NVIDIA graphic card, delivers scalable, high-performance capabilities for design, gaming, and content creation. The laptop’s 2.8K OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate ensures exceptional visuals, while DTS:X Ultra dual 2W speakers, Wi-Fi 6E, fingerprint login, and PC Manager optimize connectivity and user experience.
TECNO’s strategic partnership with Qualcomm Technologies was a highlight of the TECNO AI Ecosystem Product Launch event, demonstrating a shared vision for the future of AI PCs. Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm, took the stage to discuss the integration of Qualcomm’s cutting-edge PC chipset into the new MEGABOOK S14 laptop, underscoring TECNO’s commitment to delivering high-performance computing solutions.
Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm
In addition, TECNO also introduced several standout new products. The featherlight 999g (35.2oz) ultrabook MEGABOOK T14 Air, features high-speed storage and LPDDR5 memory, while the ultra-thin, all-metal MEGABOOK K15S, equipped with a powerful 70Wh battery and supported by a 65W PD GaN charger, offers a smarter and more long-lasting user experience. Both devices are empowered by TECNO AI with advanced AI capabilities such as AI Album and AI Voice Assistant, making them perfect companions for all aspects of life.
The Next Game-Changing Tech Innovation: See the World with the TECNO AI Glasses Series
TECNO’s new AI Glasses Series also took center stage with the introduction of TECNO AI Glasses Pro and TECNO AI Glasses, reimagining eyewear with cutting-edge imaging, intelligent interactions, and a sleek aesthetic. The TECNO AI Glasses feature an aviator design, while the Pro model showcases a browline style, both embodying timeless elegance and modern fashion.
TECNO AI Glasses Redefine the Way People See the Future
Equipped with a 50MP high-definition camera, the series integrates an OV50D sensor, a 100° ultra-wide-angle custom lens, and an AI ISP imaging chip, forming a mobile-grade imaging system. This system lets users capture stunning, high-resolution photos with advanced AI noise reduction and HDR capabilities. With real-time translation supporting over 100 languages, TECNO AI’s Ella empowers accurate translation even for less common languages, as well as voice control, AI-powered object recognition, and intelligent information summaries for ultimate convenience.
Additionally, the AI Glasses Pro features a MicroLED display with 7th-gen resin waveguide technology, offering a 30° field of view, over 1,500 nits of brightness AR display, and a lightweight, ultra-thin design. The AR display allows users to effortlessly enjoy features like translation display, navigation, information prompts, and teleprompting.
Equipped with a 250mAh battery, these glasses offer over 11 hours of music playback and 8 hours of mixed use with just 30 minutes of charging. An advanced ultra-linear speaker, bass enhancement, and spatial sound deliver an immersive audio experience, while Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4 ensure seamless connectivity.
With these innovative launches, TECNO is setting new standards in mobile imaging and AI-enhanced technology, shaping a more connected and empowered future for consumers in emerging markets. Once again, TECNO has showcased its cutting-edge innovation on the global stage at MWC. With the brand essence of “Stop at Nothing”, TECNO’s relentless pursuit of innovation is making AI-powered technology more accessible, allowing consumers to experience the future ahead of time.
Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]
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