Samsung’s Secret Android XR Headset:
Samsung has been teasing a prototype VR headset, codenamed Project Muhan. We got an exclusive first look at this collaborative effort between Samsung and Google, a headset that shares some visual similarities with the Apple Vision Pro but represents a significant step towards unifying the fragmented XR headset market. The growing competition in the XR space makes this a crucial moment for Samsung to introduce a product that leverages the strengths of Android.
The XR Headset Landscape
Currently, the XR headset market is divided:
- Apple has the Vision Pro running visionOS.
- Meta has the Quest line running Horizon OS.
- Other manufacturers are emerging with their own operating systems.
The problem lies in fragmentation—each ecosystem operates differently, making cross-platform compatibility challenging. Project Muhan is the first Android XR headset, a collaboration between Google and Samsung, similar to how the Nexus and Pixel phones set industry standards. This provides a solid software foundation and reference hardware to showcase its capabilities. With Android XR, Samsung aims to create a universal platform for developers and consumers alike.
Hardware Impressions
Though still a prototype, Samsung plans to release it this year. The design features:
- Front: Light-colored fabrics and a large reflective glass panel (similar to Vision Pro, but without an external eye display).
- Forehead rest & Light shield: Removable and magnetic for comfort and reduced peripheral light.
- Back: Inspired by the Quest Pro, featuring a head-cupping design and adjustment dial for weight distribution.
- Frame: Thin metallic frame housing a Snapdragon chip and cooling fans.
- Controls: Single button, volume rocker, and integrated touchpad on the right strap.
- Battery: Uses an external battery pack connected via USB-C, making it more versatile than Apple’s fixed solution.
Unlike other headsets, the weight distribution favors the brow instead of pressing against the lower eye area. This should make prolonged use more comfortable, eliminating a common complaint with existing XR headsets. The addition of an adjustable magnetic light shield is a unique design choice that could improve immersion and user experience.
The Power of Android XR
The real breakthrough is Android XR—Google and Samsung’s version of Pixel for headsets, with a focus on software innovation. This headset is designed not just for standalone use but as a reference device to drive future XR headset development.
Key Features:
- Interface: Home menu with a scrolling app list, settings, and recently used apps.
- Controls:
- Top button functions as the home button.
- Hand-tracking gestures supplement physical controls.
- Hand & Eye Tracking: No controllers were used in the demo, but support is expected.
- Adaptive Windows: Windows can be resized and repositioned using large handles.
- Multiple Input Options: The headset supports voice commands, hand tracking, and Bluetooth peripherals.
Play Store & Spatial Apps:
- Play Store Integration: Compatible with existing Android phone and tablet apps.
- Spatial Apps: Optimized apps like YouTube offer multi-window experiences and immersive backgrounds.
- Peripheral Support: Works with Bluetooth keyboards, mice, and hand controllers.
A key advantage of Android XR is the ability to run thousands of existing Play Store apps, making it the most versatile XR headset ecosystem. Unlike Meta’s Quest OS, which relies on a separate app ecosystem, Android XR provides a familiar environment for both developers and users.
Gemini Integration: The Standout Feature
Gemini, Google’s AI assistant, is deeply integrated, running live in the background for context-aware interactions:
- Visual Assistance: Identifies objects, translates signs, answers questions.
- Navigation: Controls UI, manages windows, and enhances app interaction.
- Google Maps Demo: Voice-controlled navigation and location searching.
- Circle to Search: Allows users to circle real-world objects for instant searches (still buggy in the demo).
Unlike Apple’s Vision Pro, which lacks AI features, Gemini reduces reliance on hand-tracking, preventing fatigue from prolonged use. The AI’s multimodal capabilities mean it can see what the user sees, making it one of the most advanced assistants ever integrated into an XR device.
Hands-Free Interaction & Accessibility
One of the biggest challenges in XR is fatigue from prolonged hand gestures. Gemini minimizes this by allowing voice-based UI navigation, app interaction, and object recognition. Users can switch between apps, resize windows, and perform searches without physically interacting with the headset, reducing strain.
Early Impressions
- Display Quality: Good, but slightly behind the Vision Pro in sharpness.
- Comfort: Thoughtful design, removable light shield improves usability.
- Software Strategy: Android XR could lead to a diverse XR ecosystem, much like Android phones.
- Battery Life: The external battery solution is versatile but remains a question in terms of longevity.
- Pricing: Likely premium, aiming to boost spatial app development and strengthen the Android XR ecosystem.
Samsung has not disclosed pricing details, but given the hardware capabilities and focus on AI, it will likely position this as a premium product, competing with Apple and Meta in the high-end XR market.
Conclusion
Project Muhan is shaping up to be a game-changer in the XR headset market. Samsung and Google are betting on a software-first approach, leveraging Android XR and AI-powered assistance to compete with Apple and Meta. The integration of Gemini AI, Play Store support, and flexible hardware compatibility make this an exciting development in the XR space.
If Samsung’s Android XR becomes the new standard, we could see a major shift in the XR market—one where headsets are as common as smartphones. This is a space to watch closely.