Samsung launched Galaxy XR to take on Apple’s Vision Pro: Check Features

Samsung and Google unveiled the Galaxy XR on Tuesday, a mixed-reality headset priced at $1,800 that directly targets Apple’s Vision Pro but costs roughly half as much. The device, developed under the codename Project Moohan, is the first major headset to ship on Google’s new Android XR platform and arrives with a launch bundle meant to entice early adopters.

Market positioning and strategy

Samsung and Google say the Galaxy XR aims to broaden consumer interest in immersive wearables by offering lower cost and lighter hardware than many rivals. Samsung described demand for the category as uncertain and declined to set specific sales targets, calling adoption “difficult to tell.” Google framed the strategy as part of a broader ecosystem approach where consumers use a mix of headsets, glasses and conventional devices for different tasks.

Design, performance and AI features

The Galaxy XR uses high-resolution Micro-OLED panels for each eye with passthrough cameras and a fully immersive mode for gaming and video playback. It is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 chip with the Hexagon NPU and integrates Google’s Gemini AI to offer contextual experiences such as drawing a circle around a real-world object to pull up information or shopping links. Samsung emphasized weight as a selling point: the headset weighs 545 grams, compared with about 800 grams for Apple’s updated Vision Pro.

Battery life is rated at about 2.5 hours for video playback, similar to the Vision Pro, and the device can be used while charging. Samsung and Google will offer a free “Explorer Pack” to early buyers that bundles 12 months of Google AI Pro, a year of YouTube Premium, a discounted YouTube TV trial, season access to NBA League Pass in the U.S. or Coupang Play Sports Pass in Korea, plus other app and service partners.

Availability, accessories and retail plans

The Galaxy XR will be sold initially through Samsung’s own stores and online channels. Samsung said it plans to expand retail availability but noted logistical challenges such as accommodating prescription lenses may limit how quickly major retailers roll the headset out. Optional accessories at launch include a travel case and handheld controllers priced at $250 each.

Competitive context

Samsung enters a market where Meta Platforms continues to lead the mixed-reality segment, though Meta’s higher-end headset pricing has shifted downward in recent years. Apple’s Vision Pro remains the closest competitor on features and positioning, while Apple has reportedly delayed a cheaper, lighter Vision Pro variant to focus on sleeker smart glasses. Samsung and Google are also collaborating on dedicated smart glasses that will run Gemini and are expected to ship soon.

Key Highlights

• Price Advantage: Nearly half the cost of Vision Pro.
• Lightweight Design: 545g vs. Vision Pro’s 800g.
• AI Integration: Powered by Gemini AI, enabling real-world object recognition and contextual info overlays.
• Exclusive Bundle: Free “Explorer Pack” includes:
  • 12 months of Google AI Pro
  • YouTube Premium & YouTube TV trial
  • NBA League Pass or Coupang Play Sports Pass
  • NFL PRO ERA, Adobe’s Project Pulsar, Calm, and more

Key specifications