Google and Samsung Unite to Challenge Apple with Android XR for Next-Gen Reality

Google has announced a strategic partnership with Samsung to launch a new operating system, Android XR, tailored specifically for headsets and smart glasses. This collaboration aims to redefine user interaction within the realms of virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and extended reality (XR) by integrating advanced voice, motion control, and eye-tracking functionalities.

Android XR arises as a potential contender to Apple's visionOS, striving to create a seamless user experience across both virtual and real environments. Powered by Google's Gemini AI, this new platform promises a more intelligent and personalized interaction, enhancing usability in daily life and bringing a substantial leap in XR technology.

The first product to leverage this operating system is the Project Moohan headset, a creation by Samsung set to debut next year. It seamlessly blends aspects of Apple’s Vision Pro and Meta Quest 3S, with advantages in weight, comfort, and field of view—allowing users an enhanced, immersive viewing experience. The device supports both VR and AR modes and features an external battery pack, providing extended usage.

Developers can already begin integrating their applications within the Android XR ecosystem, thanks to the compatibility with existing Android apps that require minimal adjustments for XR use. This initiates a new wave of accessible mixed-reality applications while lowering the barrier for developers entering this field.

Android XR is poised to expand beyond headsets, fostering potential compatibility with next-generation smart glasses. Google aims to leverage its extensive background in AI, AR, and VR to establish a robust platform, encouraging a vibrant ecosystem for developers and manufacturers. Google's Android ecosystem president, Sameer Samat, emphasizes that this marks a pivotal point in XR technology development, expanding its practical usage and appeal.

Though pricing details for Project Moohan remain undisclosed, Samsung hints at a more competitive point below Apple’s Vision Pro, which is priced at $3,499. The initiative undertaken by Google and Samsung reflects a significant stride towards mainstream adoption of mixed reality through more affordable and capable devices.