Samsung and Google Unveil Galaxy XR, A New Android XR Operating System for Future Smart Glasses

Samsung and Google have released the Galaxy XR headset, co-developed with Qualcomm, as the first step towards smart glasses. The device includes a mixed reality headset with external cameras, eye-tracking, and hand-tracking capabilities. The companies are banking on their Android XR operating system and Google's Gemini AI assistant to differentiate the device from competitors like Meta. The Galaxy XR is available starting at $1,799.

Samsung Electronics and Google have jointly released the Galaxy XR headset, marking a significant step towards the smart glasses market. The device, co-developed with Qualcomm, combines mixed reality features with advanced AI capabilities, positioning it as a competitor to Meta's offerings and Apple's Vision Pro headset.

The Galaxy XR, priced at $1,799, is available starting today. It features a lightweight design, with a 545-gram frame that includes a forehead cushion to distribute pressure. The headset is powered by a Snapdragon XR Plus Gen 2 chipset, which supports a 3,552 x 3,840 microLED display with up to 90Hz refresh rates. The battery life is estimated to be around two hours for general use, with the ability to charge while in use Samsung Galaxy XR launches for $1,700 less than Apple Vision Pro — release date, price, specs and more^[1].

The Galaxy XR runs on Android XR, an operating system designed for headsets and smart glasses. It includes XR-optimized versions of popular apps such as Google Maps, YouTube, and Google Meet. Google's Gemini AI assistant is integrated into the device, allowing for voice, hand, and eye control. Gemini Live, a feature of Android XR, can understand what the user is seeing and doing, providing real-time information and suggestions Samsung Galaxy XR launches for $1,700 less than Apple Vision Pro — release date, price, specs and more^[1].

Samsung and Google are banking on the Android XR experience to differentiate the Galaxy XR from competitors. The device includes a passthrough mode that allows users to see the real world around them while using the headset. It also supports spatial photos and videos, enabling immersive viewing experiences. The Galaxy XR can be used for work, with multiple apps open and arrangeable around a "massive, private space" Samsung Galaxy XR launches for $1,700 less than Apple Vision Pro — release date, price, specs and more^[1].

The Galaxy XR is part of a broader strategy by Samsung and Google to explore new form factors for entertainment and computing. The companies have announced partnerships with Warby Parker and Gentle Monster for eyewear, signaling their interest in lighter, eyeglass-type AI devices. The market for head-mounted displays is expected to grow by 2.6% in the coming year, reaching $7.27 billion Samsung's Galaxy XR headset to take on Apple with help from Google and Qualcomm^[2].

The Galaxy XR's release follows months of teasers and previews, and it is the first of a family of new devices. Samsung has been studying the extended reality segment for over a decade, and the Galaxy XR is the result of a long-term partnership with Google. The device is available for purchase from Samsung.com and Samsung Experience stores in the United States and South Korea Samsung Galaxy XR launches for $1,700 less than Apple Vision Pro — release date, price, specs and more^[1].