UPDATE: Samsung has just launched the highly anticipated Galaxy XR in New York City, and it’s available for purchase now at $1,799.99. This new device positions itself as a direct competitor to Apple’s Vision Pro, but at half the price and with over $1,000 in free incentives.
The Galaxy XR is powered by Android XR and Qualcomm’s Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 chipset, promising a groundbreaking experience for users. “With Galaxy XR, Samsung is introducing a brand-new ecosystem of mobile devices,” said Won-Joon Choi, Chief Operating Officer of Samsung’s Mobile eXperience Business. This product aims to transform mobile AI and immersive technology from concept to everyday reality.
Samsung’s event showcased several exciting features, including an immersive 3D maps experience designed to help users find local pizza spots. While this demo was visually impressive, many attendees noted its practicality might be limited. Users are more likely to reach for their phones rather than donning a headset for everyday tasks.
However, the Galaxy XR’s spatial capture capabilities could be a game changer. YouTube creators can now easily convert their videos into spatial formats, enhancing viewer experiences. During the demo, users were able to explore 3D images of houses through popular platforms like Chrome and Zillow, showcasing the potential of this technology.
Despite these advancements, the comfort level of wearing the headset for extended periods raised concerns. After a 30-minute demo, users reported discomfort, questioning its practicality for all-day wear. The Galaxy XR utilizes pass-through video technology, allowing interaction with the real world, but some users experienced noticeable lag.
The pricing strategy makes the Galaxy XR appealing. At $1,799.99, it significantly undercuts Apple’s Vision Pro, which retails at $3,499. Additionally, Samsung’s generous Explorer Pack includes a year of subscriptions to popular services like AI Pro, YouTube Premium, and more, effectively reducing the price to around $800 when factoring in these incentives.
As Samsung enters the XR market, the Galaxy XR represents a significant step in making immersive technology accessible to a broader audience. It’s a compelling option for early adopters eager to explore this new frontier.
Stay tuned for more updates as we gather user feedback and insights on this innovative device.
