In a strategic move that could reshape the mixed-reality landscape, Google and Samsung announced a partnership Thursday to develop a new mixed-reality headset running on the Android XR operating system, according to a new report. Clearly, the Google and Samsung Android XR headset directly challenges Apple’s Vision Pro and Meta’s headsets in the premium market.
The collaboration aims to create a more accessible and diverse ecosystem for extended reality (XR) devices, potentially offering buyers, including Apple users, alternative options in the growing mixed-reality space. More competition could impact both features and pricing, of course.
Google and Samsung Android XR headset will compete with Vision Pro
Samsung’s upcoming headset, code-named Project Moohan (Korean for “infinite”), will run on a specially designed version of Android for XR devices, Bloomberg reported. The new operating system represents Google’s ambitious attempt to replicate its smartphone success, where Android powers the majority of the world’s mobile devices. But folks note it’s very similar to VisionOS.
While Apple’s Vision Pro has established new benchmarks in mixed-reality technology, its $3,499 price point and reported weight issues have limited its mainstream adoption. Google and Samsung’s partnership appears strategically positioned to address these limitations, though there’s no word on its headset’s actual pricing yet. But it could potentially offer more accessible options for consumers interested in mixed-reality experiences.
Rapidly growing market
The new Android XR operating system will have artificial intelligence at its core. If offers practical applications that could appeal to Apple users accustomed to seamless technological integration, Bloomberg said. For instance, the system can use external cameras to provide real-time furniture assembly instructions or enable immersive vacation planning through Google Maps, demonstrating practical use cases beyond traditional virtual reality applications.
This development marks a significant shift in the mixed-reality marketplace. Major technology players have already committed to the platform. Sony Group Corp., Xreal Inc. and Lynx Mixed Reality have announced plans to develop devices using the new Android XR OS, suggesting a robust ecosystem may emerge to compete with Apple’s more controlled approach.
Solutions targeted to different devices
NEW: Hands-on with Samsung and Google’s first mixed-reality headset and Android XR. I’m impressed. This headset shows the Vision Pro hardware needs to evolve – fast. And Meta will soon have a challenger in glasses. https://t.co/HpIZoGS9RT
— Mark Gurman (@markgurman) December 12, 2024
Google’s head of Android ecosystem, Sameer Samat, emphasized that the platform is designed to support a range of devices solving different problems, contrasting with Apple’s single-device strategy. This approach could lead to specialized headsets for gaming, entertainment, medical procedures and professional sports. That could offer Apple users more targeted solutions for specific needs.
The announcement’s timing is significant, as the mixed-reality market continues to evolve. While Apple has set a high bar with the Vision Pro’s capabilities, the Google-Samsung partnership shows competition in the premium headset space will intensify in 2025.
Google and Samsung Android XR headset: Competition could benefit consumers
The upcoming Google and Samsung Android XR headset might present an interesting decision point for Apple users. While the Vision Pro offers seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem, the upcoming Android XR platform promises a more diverse range of devices and potentially more accessible price points. If this new platform succeeds, it could influence Apple’s future strategy in the mixed-reality space. It could potentially benefit consumers through increased competition and innovation — not to mention lower prices.
Samsung’s Project Moohan headset is scheduled for release next year. That should set the stage for a compelling market battle. As these technologies continue to mature, Apple users will have more options to consider when choosing their entry point into the world of mixed reality.
