Samsung Unveils A Vision Pro competitor
Samsung just annocued their Vision Pro competitor, called Galaxy XR, that is built in partnership with Google and Qualcomm. It is powered by Android XR, which is made for immersive experiences. One thing to note is that it was actually released just after Apple’s Vision Pro got an update, which is probably not a coincidence.
Google’s AI, Gemini, is built right into the system, giving users the ability to control the device with voice, gestures, and what it sees or hears. Surprisingly, at the event, in all the live demos, Gemini worked smoothly. It is meant to feel like more of a helpful companion than just another assistant.
As for design, the Galaxy XR is lightweight, has a detachable light shield, and a separate battery pack. It also has a travel case that fits all the accessories, which is similar to Apple’s Vision Pro one. One thing that Samsung did design that the Apple Vision Pro didn’t have for a while was controllers for games and control.
The Galaxy XR runs Google Maps, YouTube, Photos, and Circle to Search. It is also the first AR experience to have Netflix, a big content win for Samsung. You also get free access to many apps and features, which is probably to help with adoptions. The headset can even convert 2D videos into 3D ones for a more immersive viewing experience.
Samsung is also focusing on enterprise and education, too. It said that it is being used for virtual shipbuilding training and medical teaching. This shows how Samsung wants the XR to be more than just entertainment; they want it to be a tool for real work.
The Galaxy XR is cheaper than the Apple Vision Pro. The headset also runs on the open Android XR platform, so regular Android apps work easily. Developers using Unity, OpenXR, or WebXR will all be able to make an app for it quickly, says Samsung. This open system might even help more people try XR for the first time.
At the event of the Galaxy XR, Samsung teased AI glasses made with Good Monster and Warby Parker. This headset set could make XR more stylish and part of daily life in the future. The idea is to take XR beyond headsets, into something people actually wear outside.
The Galaxy XR will cost $1,799 and is available right now in South Korea and the U.S. It is a smart move from Samsung, especially since it blends AI and XR. Whether it can beat Apple’s polish and ecosystem will still have to be seen, too.
Would you pick the Galaxy XR over Apple’s Vision Pro? Is Netflix on XR enough to make you want one? Do you think adding Gemini AI makes a big difference? What do you think about Samsung teaming up with Google and Qualcomm for this? Will you be getting one? Let us know in the comments!
Source and Images: Samsung