MKBHD has unveiled the first real look at Samsung’s upcoming standalone headset, which will run Google’s revolutionary Android XR operating system. This exciting development marks a significant step forward in the virtual reality landscape, offering advanced features and capabilities set to challenge existing competitors like Apple Vision Pro.
What Is Samsung’s Headset?
Samsung’s latest headset, code-named “Project Moohan,” will debut this year. It is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 chipset and runs Google’s Android XR. This headset features cutting-edge displays, eye tracking, hand tracking, and utilizes an external tethered battery. Detailed specifications are yet to be disclosed, but early reviews indicate exceptional performance.
Recently, expert tech reviewer Ian Hamilton had a hands-on experience with Samsung’s headset. Although he was restricted from photographing the device, he provided a simulator-rendered preview of select apps and the overall design. The video showcases the innovative aspects Samsung has integrated into its headset, highlighting its potential appeal to early adopters and tech enthusiasts.
Hands-On With Samsung’s Android XR Headset, Shipping In 2025
Samsung’s first standalone headset arrives in 2025, featuring Google’s Android XR and Qualcomm’s Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 chipset.
How Does Samsung’s Headset Compare to Apple Vision Pro?
While Samsung’s headset shares some design similarities with Apple Vision Pro, several key differences set it apart:
Face Pad and Strap Design
Samsung’s headset employs a halo strap, a design element reminiscent of Meta Quest Pro and PlayStation VR2, focusing pressure on the forehead and top of the head. In contrast, Apple Vision Pro uses a soft ski-mask strap, distributing pressure over the forehead, cheeks, temples, and nose.
Open Periphery
The open periphery design of Samsung’s headset allows users to maintain a view of the surrounding environment, an advantage over Apple Vision Pro’s enclosed design. Samsung offers an optional light shield to block out peripheral views if desired.
Strap Comfort
Samsung incorporates a padded rigid plastic strap, while Apple Vision Pro uses soft, flexible straps. The Samsung strap provides better balance but restricts reclining comfort. This design trade-off emphasizes comfort versus functionality.
Lack of EyeSight Feature
Notably, Samsung’s headset lacks EyeSight, Apple Vision Pro’s unique feature. EyeSight projects a rendered view of the wearer’s eyes to others in the room, adding a layer of natural interaction. Samsung’s omission of this feature centers its design on practicality.
Software and AI Integration
The Android XR operating system on Samsung’s headset includes Gemini AI, a powerful virtual assistant. Unlike Meta AI, which operates on captured images, Gemini AI offers continuous, real-time interaction. Users can circle objects, search the internet, and open Google Maps directly from their headset.
Samsung’s Android XR headset – in reality, not just a render.
Gemini AI’s capabilities extend beyond basic queries, offering comprehensive support within apps and operating system functions. This level of integration significantly enhances user experience and sets Samsung’s headset apart from competitors.
User Interface and Usability
The Android XR system features an intuitive design, drawing inspiration from Apple’s visionOS. Users can open system menus by pressing a top button or using hand gestures to initiate circular app icons. This seamless interface ensures ease of navigation and accessibility.
Android XR – in reality, not a simulator.
The ability to switch between flatscreen and immersive views in the Google Maps application demonstrates Android XR’s flexibility and adaptability, providing a unique user experience.
Upcoming Launch and Industry Impact
Samsung aims to launch its Android XR headset later this year, although no specific release date has been announced yet. As the first device to run Android XR, it paves the way for future releases from other manufacturers, including Sony, Lynx, and Xreal.
The introduction of Android XR signifies a shift in the VR market, offering a platform that could compete directly against Meta’s Horizon OS. This development challenges existing ecosystems and presents new opportunities for developers and consumers alike.
Google Acquires Some Of HTC Vive’s Engineering Team
Google invests $250 million in HTC Vive’s engineering team to accelerate Android XR development.
Google’s acquisition of HTC Vive’s engineering team underscores the growing significance of Android XR in the virtual reality industry, positioning it as a formidable competitor to existing platforms.
Conclusion: Exciting Times Ahead in VR
Samsung’s upcoming Android XR headset represents a significant milestone in the VR industry, offering advanced features and software capabilities set to redefine user experiences. With its distinct design, powerful AI integration, and intuitive interface, this headset positions itself as a strong contender in the highly competitive VR market.
Stay tuned for more updates on Samsung’s headset launch and Android XR’s potential impact on the future of virtual reality technology. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or merely curious about the latest advancements, the development of Android XR is sure to be a topic of great interest.
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