Samsung officially entered the mixed reality space today with the launch of the Galaxy XR headset, a powerful new device built to compete directly with Apple’s Vision Pro. Priced at $1,799.99, the Galaxy XR headset is nearly $1,700 cheaper than the Vision Pro, offering a more affordable yet high-end alternative for users exploring the next frontier of immersive tech.
The headset, now available in the U.S. through Samsung’s website and Samsung Experience Stores, marks a major collaboration between Samsung, Google, and Qualcomm in creating a next-generation XR platform.
Designed for Comfort and Long-Term Wear
Samsung emphasizes a “human-centric design” with the Galaxy XR headset, focusing on comfort and usability during extended sessions.
The headset’s lightweight frame distributes pressure evenly across the forehead and back of the head, reducing facial strain – a common complaint among heavier VR headsets. Weighing 545 grams (about 1.2 pounds) with the forehead cushion, it’s significantly lighter than Apple’s Vision Pro, which weighs between 750 and 800 grams.
For deeper immersion, Samsung includes a detachable light shield that blocks external light, though it can be used without it for a more open experience.
Crystal-Clear 4K Micro-OLED Displays
Visual performance is another area where Samsung clearly intends to compete. The Galaxy XR headset features dual 4K micro-OLED displays with a total resolution of 3,552 x 3,840, boasting an impressive 109-degree horizontal field of view.
Each panel delivers 29 million total pixels with a 6.3-micron pixel pitch and 96% DCI-P3 color accuracy, resulting in vibrant, true-to-life visuals. Users can choose from refresh rates of 60Hz, 72Hz, or 90Hz, depending on their preference for smoother gameplay or better battery life.
The headset’s cameras and sensors also enable eye and hand tracking, creating a fully interactive experience similar to Apple’s Vision Pro.
Qualcomm Power and Advanced Tracking
Under the hood, the Galaxy XR headset is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 chipset – one of the most advanced processors for mixed reality applications.
Samsung packed in an impressive array of cameras and sensors, including:
- Two high-resolution passthrough cameras
- Six world-facing tracking cameras
- Four eye-tracking cameras with iris recognition for authentication
- A 6.5MP 3D camera for capturing photos and videos
- Five Inertial Measurement Units, a depth sensor, and a flicker sensor
For users who need prescription lenses, optical inserts are sold separately.
Immersive Audio and Strong Connectivity
The Galaxy XR headset doesn’t just focus on visuals – it’s also built for rich, spatial sound. The headset includes dual 2-way speakers and a six-microphone array, ensuring clear audio and precise voice recognition.
Connectivity is top-notch, with Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, 16GB RAM, and 256GB of internal storage.
Like Apple’s Vision Pro, Samsung’s headset uses a separate battery pack offering around two hours of active use (or 2.5 hours for video playback). However, users can continue to use the device while charging, making it more flexible for longer sessions.
Android XR and Gemini AI Integration
Running on the Android XR platform, which Samsung co-developed with Google and Qualcomm, the Galaxy XR headset seamlessly integrates Google’s Gemini AI at the system level.
Gemini isn’t just a voice assistant — Samsung describes it as a “new type of AI companion” capable of understanding the user’s surroundings through the headset’s cameras and microphones.
Here’s how Gemini enhances the Galaxy XR headset experience:
- In Google Maps, Gemini helps users navigate and discover personalized nearby suggestions.
- Users can use natural language commands to find videos on YouTube or get instant information about what they’re watching.
- With passthrough mode, users can draw a circle in the air around any real-world object to search for related information.
- Regular 2D photos and videos can be automatically converted into spatial media with depth effects, similar to Apple’s Vision Pro.
- Users can stream shows in 4K on what feels like a private theater-sized screen.
- Sports fans can watch multiple games at once, thanks to customizable virtual screens.
- In XR gaming, Gemini provides real-time tips and coaching, offering interactive support while you play.
For more on Gemini AI, visit Google’s official Gemini page.
Accessories, Pricing, and Early Perks
Samsung is rolling out a set of accessories to complete the Galaxy XR ecosystem. Users can purchase a Galaxy XR Travel Case and a Galaxy XR Controller, both priced at $250 each.
Early adopters will also receive 12 months of free access to:
- Google AI Pro
- YouTube Premium
- Google Play Pass
These added perks make the Galaxy XR headset a strong contender in the premium mixed reality market, especially for users already invested in the Android ecosystem.
For more details or to order, visit the official Samsung Galaxy XR page.
Future of XR: Smart Glasses and Beyond
Samsung’s ambitions go beyond this headset. The company confirmed it is already developing multiple future form factors, including AI-powered smart glasses.
To bring those products to life, Samsung is teaming up with Google, Warby Parker, and Gentle Monster, signaling a blend of tech innovation with modern eyewear design.
This partnership could lead to consumer-friendly AR glasses designed for everyday wear – a major step toward mainstream augmented reality.
Final Thoughts
With the Galaxy XR headset, Samsung is taking a confident leap into mixed reality – and doing so with aggressive pricing, lighter hardware, and deep AI integration.
While Apple’s Vision Pro may have set the benchmark for high-end spatial computing, Samsung’s offering brings a compelling alternative to the table, especially for Android users who want cutting-edge features without the $3,499 price tag.
As competition heats up in the XR space, consumers stand to benefit the most – and the next few years could be the most exciting yet for immersive technology.
