New York: Samsung, in collaboration with Google and Qualcomm, has launched the Galaxy XR, a new AI-powered mixed reality headset aimed squarely at Apple’s Vision Pro and Meta’s Quest line.
Priced at $1,800, about half the cost of Apple’s Vision Pro, the Galaxy XR goes on sale Tuesday night. Buyers will receive a year of YouTube Premium and access to Google’s Gemini AI assistant as part of an introductory package.
The headset offers an immersive computing experience that blends digital apps with real-world surroundings. Equipped with 4K displays and external cameras, it allows users to walk freely while navigating virtual interfaces using hand gestures or voice commands.
Samsung’s design closely mirrors Apple’s Vision Pro, complete with curved glass, metallic trim, and an external battery pack. However, the company argues the Galaxy XR’s integration with Gemini gives it a major edge, enabling tasks like managing virtual workspaces, querying landmarks, or generating AI videos with Google’s Veo tool.
The partnership marks the latest effort by tech giants to find the next major hardware platform beyond smartphones. Both Samsung and Google say the Galaxy XR serves as a “stepping stone” toward AI-powered smart glasses, being developed with eyewear brands Warby Parker and Gentle Monster.
While the technology impressed in early demos, analysts caution that privacy concerns may limit adoption. Because Gemini processes data in the cloud, users must allow Google access to headset activity, a potential dealbreaker for those wary of data sharing.
Despite growing excitement around AI wearables, sales remain small compared with smartphones. Meta’s Ray-Ban smart glasses sold only about 2 million units in two years, versus Apple’s 200 million iPhones annually. For now, the road from mixed reality to mainstream AI glasses still looks long.
