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Samsung is set to make a significant return to the immersive tech space with this Samsung XR headset, an upcoming mixed reality device. Codenamed Project Moohan, this XR headset is scheduled for release literally anytime now. This device is positioned to compete directly with high-end offerings like the Apple Vision Pro and Meta Quest 3.
This Samsung XR headset is the result of Google teaming up with Samsung, and in a recent demo (shown at Google I/O), Google demonstrated how you can use it to interact directly with AI. There’s no need to type into AI like ChatGPT—you can speak directly to the headset, and it will provide on-screen answers. This is quite similar to the smart glasses I reviewed in a previous video, where you can use AI to help translate languages in real time. You can read all about that here.
But the difference with this new Samsung and Google headset is that it can provide you with immersive, detailed visuals on request. This was demonstrated in a navigation trial where the AI brings up maps and Google Earth visuals. The selling point is that the AI can interpret what you’re seeing in context, so you can directly ask it questions about your surroundings.
Similar to high-end smart glasses like the RayNeo X2, this headset can identify and interact with real-world items. For example, you can ask it questions about things you see—such as books, movies, or objects—and it will help you with your query.
It seems like they’re really pushing the concept of having AI as an assistant to enhance what you see and hear in the real world. In theory, this is an advanced XR product that not only augments reality but blends in AI support in a way most companies are now aiming for.
Let’s take a quick look at the hardware this Samsung XR headset is packing:
- Processor: Powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 chipset, delivering enhanced CPU and GPU performance over previous generations.
- Display: Equipped with 4K Micro-OLED panels, offering high-resolution visuals for immersive experiences.
- Tracking: Features both eye and hand tracking capabilities, enabling intuitive interaction within virtual environments.
- Design: Includes a removable light shield for adjustable immersion levels and an external tethered battery pack to reduce on-head weight, enhancing comfort during extended use.
Why choose this Samsung XR headset over smaller XR smart glasses?
The easy answer is hardware and added features. While it’s packed with XR capabilities, this is still a powerful VR device too—it’s a hybrid of both.
And because it’s an Android headset, it has two major system features: Gemini and the Play Store. This means phone and tablet apps from the Play Store will run on the headset. The idea is that any Android XR headset will be able to connect to the Play Store and run your favourite apps. Samsung has done a solid job integrating the Play Store in general—most apps appear to run without issues.
There are also special apps designed specifically for XR devices, like YouTube, Zoom Workspace, and other social apps. These also work well on the Samsung headset.
But it’s the Gemini AI integration where things get particularly interesting. That seemed to be the main focus in the Google demo. The ability to converse naturally with AI and collaborate visually creates a whole new XR experience. Gemini is multimodal, meaning it can understand text, voice, and visual input—including what you’re seeing through the headset in certain contexts.
That’s incredibly exciting—and a bit unsettling, especially if you’re privacy-conscious. But what it means is that you could, for example, ask Gemini about something in front of you, and it could give you helpful answers—similar to what it might say if you uploaded a photo of the same item. I can see how this could seriously boost productivity, especially since you can talk to Gemini within apps, getting guidance and responses in real time.
This is a huge leap compared to competitors like the Meta Quest or Apple Vision Pro, which currently don’t offer this level of built-in AI functionality. That said, don’t expect the Samsung headset to be without drawbacks. Early testers have reported some lag with pinch-to-interact gestures when summoning the AI. And since Gemini is still evolving, the overall experience isn’t as refined as it could be yet. Some users report mild cognitive fatigue after long usage sessions.
Just keep in mind: this headset is still in active development. Hopefully, by the time the final version launches, many of these kinks will be worked out.
Should you throw away your Meta Quest 3?
Absolutely not. When it comes to VR gaming, the Meta Quest 3 remains one of the best out there. Its hardware is excellent for standalone VR, and the Meta app—despite a few bugs—is still incredibly useful. Quest 3 offers fantastic gameplay without needing a PC.
And if it’s AI features you’re after, there are already some options on the market. As I mentioned earlier, a new wave of XR glasses is starting to appear. No, they don’t have the power of the Samsung XR headset, and they’re not Android-based… yet. But I imagine we’re not far off from Android-compatible glasses hitting shelves.
Rabbit R1 Voice-Activated AI Assistant
There are also AI gadgets you can buy now that make AI easier to use in everyday life. For example, the Rabbit R1 Voice-Activated AI Assistant includes:
- An AI voice recorder with transcription and summarization
- Built-in camera
- Real-time language translation
These kinds of tools are aiming to make AI interactions simpler and more practical for daily use.
Thanks for reading our review on the new Samsung XR headset. Oh and by the way! If you’re on the lookout for a new laptop, make sure try our Laptop Finder Quiz. Otherwise, check out our similar tech reviews on the links below.
