Samsung has embarked on an innovative journey by collaborating with Google and Qualcomm to unveil the Galaxy XR headset, marking the inception of a new era in Android XR devices. This partnership aims to deliver a comprehensive range of XR form factors, including the much-anticipated AI glasses, although the spotlight is currently on the headset itself.
Technical Specifications and Features
The Samsung Galaxy XR boasts cutting-edge micro-OLED displays, achieving an impressive resolution of 3,552 x 3,840 pixels, which translates to a total of 27 megapixels—nearly reaching 8K clarity. Users can choose from refresh rates of 72Hz, 60Hz, or 90Hz, while the virtual display offers a wide field of view, covering 109° horizontally and 100° vertically.
Equipped with two external cameras, the headset allows for video passthrough, enabling users to interact with their surroundings while enjoying an XR experience. These cameras, featuring 18mm f/2.0 wide-angle lenses and 6.5MP sensors, also have the capability to capture stunning 3D photos and videos.
For seamless tracking, the Galaxy XR includes six world-facing cameras that facilitate inside-out tracking, eliminating the need for external hardware. This setup not only tracks the user’s position but also monitors hand movements, which serve as the primary input method. Additionally, the headset is enhanced with a depth sensor, five IMUs (accelerometers and gyroscopes), and a flicker sensor to optimize performance under various lighting conditions.
On the inside, four eye-tracking cameras allow the headset to discern where the user is looking, supporting iris recognition for unlocking and app authentication. The adjustable Interpupillary Distance (54-70mm) caters to users who wear glasses, while a removable light shield enhances immersion during VR applications.
Weighing in at 545g, with a separate battery weighing 302g, the Galaxy XR has been thoughtfully designed to distribute pressure evenly across the forehead and back of the head, ensuring comfort during extended use. The separation of the battery from the main unit further alleviates strain on the user’s neck.
It is important to note that this headset is not intended for on-the-go use; Samsung estimates a battery life of up to 2.5 hours while watching 2D YouTube videos, with general usage expected to last around 2 hours.
Performance and Applications
At the heart of the Galaxy XR lies the Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 chipset, offering a 20% increase in CPU speed and a 15% boost in GPU performance compared to its predecessor. This powerful chipset supports 12ms full-color video passthrough and is paired with 16GB of RAM and 256GB of storage.
The open platform of Android XR ensures compatibility with all Android applications right out of the box. Developers are encouraged to leverage OpenXR, WebXR, and Unity to craft new experiences for this and future XR devices. A key feature of the platform is Google’s Gemini AI, which enhances user interaction by allowing the headset to perceive the environment and engage in natural conversations about surroundings and tasks.
Users can utilize Google Maps to plan trips, discover interesting locations, and even interact with YouTube videos through Gemini, which can answer questions about the content being viewed. With video passthrough mode activated, users can initiate searches simply by drawing a circle around an object with their finger.
Entertainment options abound as well; the Galaxy XR allows users to stream shows in a theater-like setting, watch multiple sports broadcasts simultaneously, and engage in XR-specific gaming, all while receiving real-time tips from Gemini. Adobe’s Project Pulsar introduces an XR video editing experience, enabling users to transform standard 2D photos and videos into immersive 3D content.
Connectivity and Availability
Additional noteworthy specifications include support for low-latency Wi-Fi 7 connections (802.11be) and Bluetooth 5.4, along with six microphones for capturing voice and ambient sound. The headset is also equipped with two 2-way speakers, comprising a woofer and tweeter, to enhance audio quality.
The Samsung Galaxy XR is now available in the US and Korea, retailing at a price of ,800. Customers in the US can take advantage of exclusive perks, such as a 30% discount on accessories and a 10% discount for students on the headset itself. Furthermore, a complimentary subscription to premium content, including access to exclusive XR apps and gaming content, is included with purchases made through a specific link.
Looking ahead, Samsung and Google are also developing AI glasses in collaboration with lifestyle brand Warby Parker, alongside a partnership with luxury eyewear brand Gentle Monster, promising stylish and functional designs for the future.
