Samsung has launched its Galaxy XR headset, originally referred to as Project Moohan, at a price of $1,799, significantly lower than Apple’s Vision Pro at $3,499. The headset is available in the U.S. and South Korea and comes with an “explorer pack” that offers various subscriptions, including a year of Google AI Pro and discounted YouTube services. Notably, the Galaxy XR is touted to be lighter and more comfortable than the Vision Pro and includes a native Netflix app, which could appeal to users outside of Apple’s ecosystem.
The Galaxy XR’s design resembles a combination of the Vision Pro and Meta Quest 3 but features improvements like a cushioned front and a removable bottom light seal. It includes multiple high-resolution cameras for tracking and a display supporting 4K resolution at refresh rates up to 90Hz. Battery life is up to 2.5 hours, comparable to the Vision Pro, but user experience during a demo suggested that both headsets have similarities, including high-resolution passthrough and a familiar interface.
Users can utilize the headset for various tasks, from viewing immersive environments to managing multiple browser windows. The device features an integration of Google’s Gemini AI, providing functionalities such as searching for products and providing contextual information. Users can interact with the AI through a “Circle to Search” feature and even ask questions while examining digital content.
While the Galaxy XR appears to be positioned as a better value option compared to the Vision Pro, questions remain regarding its overall usability and appeal to a broader audience. Will consumers prioritize comfort and price, or will the Vision Pro’s ecosystem draw users despite its higher cost? Further real-world testing of the Galaxy XR will determine how it competes in the evolving market for XR headsets.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/tech/802299/samsung-galaxy-xr-hands-on-price-release-date