22Oct 2025 by alex No Comments

Samsung and Google launch the $1,800 Galaxy XR — first Android XR headset with 4K‑per‑eye displays

Mixed reality headset on a desk

Samsung’s first extended reality headset, built with Google and Qualcomm, is here. The Galaxy XR is the debut device for Android XR, priced at $1,800 — a little over half the cost of Apple’s Vision Pro. It’s available now in the US and Korea, with a specs sheet that leans on high‑resolution optics, lighter weight and deep Gemini voice integration.

Hardware highlights

Displays: Dual micro‑OLED panels with 29M total pixels (approx. 3,552 × 3,840 per eye), covering 96% DCI‑P3; up to 90Hz refresh rate.
Field of view: ~100° horizontal.
Silicon: Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2.
Tracking & passthrough: Dual high‑res passthrough cameras, six external environmental cameras, interior eye‑tracking sensors.
Biometrics: Iris recognition for unlock and password entry.
Audio I/O: Dual speakers with Dolby Atmos; six microphones.
Weight: 545g (1.2 lb) headset; external battery pack ~302g (0.7 lb).
Battery life: ~2 hours general use, ~2.5 hours video; charge while in use.
Comfort: Balanced frame, thicker forehead cushion, rear dial strap; detachable light shield.
Connectivity: Wi‑Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4; IPD range 54–70mm; prescription lens inserts available.

Android XR platform: apps, voice and multitasking

Android XR aims to feel familiar to Android users while adding spatial controls. You can navigate entirely via hand/eye tracking or speak naturally with Gemini (no wake word by default; can be disabled). Every Google Play app runs out of the box, with several reworked for mixed reality.

Google Maps: Immersive View with 3D visuals; ask Gemini for local recommendations and jump into stitched 3D interiors.
Google Photos: Cloud‑assisted “auto spatialization” adds layered depth to 2D photos and videos.
YouTube & Google TV: 4K virtual theater, 180°/360° libraries, and a spatial tab for 3D content; voice search via Gemini.
Chrome & Meet: Reworked for XR; multi‑window support lets you arrange resizable apps around your space, or have Gemini organize them for you.

Gaming, creation and peripherals

Games at launch: NFL Pro Era, Inside [JOB], and more; Gemini can offer real‑time coaching/tips in supported titles.
Creation: Adobe Project Pulsar (immersive video edits), with tools to add 3D depth and contextual captions.
PC access: Link to your desktop (e.g., Steam Link) for traditional titles; tethered mode supports VR‑style operation.
Inputs: Optional Galaxy XR controllers; supports Bluetooth gamepads, keyboards and mice.

Bundles, pricing and where to buy

Headset: $1,800; available via Samsung.com and Samsung Experience Stores.
Accessories: Galaxy XR Controller — $250; Galaxy XR Travel Case — $250.
Financing: 24‑month (~$75/mo) online; 12‑ and 24‑month options in stores.
Explorer Pack (buy by year‑end): 12 months of Google AI Pro, YouTube Premium (incl. Music), Google Play Pass; plus NFL Pro Era, Project Pulsar, Calm, Asteroid.
Sports access: NBA League Pass (2025–26 season, US) or Coupang Play Sports Pass (Korea); YouTube TV promo ($1/mo for first 3 months) in select regions.

Why it matters

Price vs. Vision Pro: At roughly half the cost, Galaxy XR lowers the barrier to high‑end mixed reality while pushing higher pixel density and an open app ecosystem.
AI‑first interaction: Always‑available Gemini voice control suits a hands‑busy, input‑limited headset environment.
Ecosystem signal: Android XR is set to expand beyond headsets to AI smart glasses, with partners like Warby Parker.

References and more info

Note: Bundles, promos and financing vary by region and time. Confirm eligibility and end dates at checkout.

Discussion: Does Galaxy XR’s price, weight and Android XR app support make it your pick over Vision Pro — or will you wait for lighter smart glasses?

Samsung and Google launch the $1,800 Galaxy XR — first Android XR headset with 4K-per-eye displays