- By Prateek Levi
- Wed, 22 Jan 2025 12:30 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Samsung XR Headset: A while back, Samsung and Google announced a collaboration with Qualcomm to develop an XR (Extended Reality) headset. Google has since unveiled Android XR, the OS designed to power the headset, while Samsung showcased a prototype. However, it seems the headset may be closer to hitting the consumer market than originally anticipated.
Reports indicate that Samsung is not only planning to officially reveal the headset at Galaxy Unpacked but may also provide hands-on prototypes for attendees. The headset shown off last year alongside Android XR could resemble the final version. While it might not be the most innovative design—looking quite similar to the Apple Vision Pro—there's still excitement surrounding the upcoming product.
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Samsung's XR headset, dubbed Project Moohan, is aimed at competing directly with Apple’s premium Mixed Reality headset that debuted last year. Samsung’s device will likely focus on Mixed Reality rather than fully immersive Virtual Reality. The real test, however, will be how well it performs in practice.
When it comes to consumer adoption, Samsung’s headset will need to address two major concerns: comfort and cost. The high price of Apple’s Vision Pro, at $3,499, was a key factor in its underwhelming sales, even for the most ardent XR fans. Samsung will need to find a more reasonable price point to make their headset accessible and competitive in the market.
Comfort is another significant factor. If users can’t comfortably wear the headset for extended periods, the product could fail before it even gains traction. Despite all of its engineering, the Vision Pro became uncomfortable after prolonged use, which was a major drawback.
The prototypes of Samsung’s headset, expected to be showcased at CES, should give us a clearer picture of whether the company is on track to deliver one of the best AR headsets available or if it will suffer the same fate as the Vision Pro.