Samsung Galaxy XR launches: $1,800 Android XR headset with Gemini AI and day‑one Play Store apps

Samsung has officially unveiled the Galaxy XR, the first Android extended reality headset co‑developed with Google. Priced at $1,800 and available to buy now, the device runs on Android XR with Gemini AI built in. It aims to blend augmented, mixed and virtual reality with a familiar Android app ecosystem—including support for “almost all” Google Play apps on day one.

Key features at a glance

• Displays: Dual micro‑OLED panels totaling ~29 million pixels (≈3,552 × 3,840 per eye), covering ~96% DCI‑P3; up to 90Hz refresh rate.
• Cameras & sensors: 12 cameras (2 passthrough, 6 world‑facing tracking, 4 eye‑tracking) plus depth and flicker sensors; iris recognition for unlocking and app passwords.
• Gemini AI built in: Ask contextual questions about what you see, summarize content, organize windows and more—hands‑free.
• Apps on day one: “Almost all” Play Store apps available as spatial panels; updated versions of Google Photos, Chrome, YouTube and Google Maps Immersive View.
• Work & play: Arrange resizable app windows around you; PC Link lets the headset act as a large virtual monitor for desktop apps and PC games.
• Inputs & peripherals: Eye/hand tracking plus support for keyboard, mouse and the optional Galaxy XR Controller.

Galaxy XR vs. Apple Vision Pro (high‑level)

• Price: Galaxy XR $1,800 vs. Vision Pro from $3,499.
• Displays: Galaxy XR totals ~29M pixels vs. Vision Pro’s ~23M; Vision Pro offers a higher 120Hz refresh (vs. 90Hz on Galaxy XR).
• Color & comfort: Galaxy XR claims ~96% DCI‑P3 and is reported to be ~205g (0.5 lb) lighter than Apple’s headset.
• Battery: Samsung rates up to 2 hours general use or 2.5 hours video playback; Apple’s latest Vision Pro model is roughly +30 minutes in both modes.
• Ecosystem: Android XR leans on the Play Store and Gemini; Apple’s visionOS integrates tightly with iOS/macOS and offers a 120Hz UI.

Entertainment, creation and maps

• Video: YouTube libraries include 180°/360° VR; watch movies via Google TV on a large, resizable virtual screen.
• Photos & memories: Convert personal photos/videos into 3D spatial media for immersive viewing.
• Maps: Use Immersive View to zoom across cityscapes and landmarks; query Gemini for context and recommendations.
• Search: Circle to Search lets you identify objects in passthrough while wearing the headset.

Comfort and ergonomics

Early hands‑on impressions cite a thicker head cushion and an easy‑adjust rear dial that help distribute weight and simplify fit adjustments. While extended sessions can still cause pressure, users reported it feels more comfortable than some competitors at first wear.

Pricing, bundles and how to buy

• Price: $1,800, available now with financing options.
• Accessories: Travel Case and Galaxy XR Controller typically $250 each ($175 apiece when bundled).
• Explorer Pack (limited time): For purchases before year‑end: Google AI Pro (1 year), YouTube Premium (incl. Music), Google Play Pass, NBA League Pass (new season access), NFL Pro Era, Asteroid, Calm and Adobe Project Pulsar.
• Order: Samsung.com

Why it matters

• Lower entry price: At $1,800, Galaxy XR undercuts high‑end rivals while promising rich app support from day one.
• App depth from launch: Play Store compatibility reduces early platform droughts and broadens everyday use cases.
• AI‑first experiences: On‑device Gemini integration may streamline multitasking and contextual assistance in spatial computing.

Learn more:
Samsung – Galaxy XR ·
Google: Android XR overview ·
Feature deep‑dive and comparison

Discussion: Does Galaxy XR’s lower price, Play Store breadth and Gemini integration make it a better first XR headset than Vision Pro—or is 120Hz and Apple’s ecosystem still the deciding factor for you?