UPDATE: Samsung has just officially launched its highly anticipated Galaxy XR headset, directly challenging Apple’s Vision Pro. Priced at $1,800, the Galaxy XR offers a more affordable option compared to the Vision Pro’s staggering $3,500. This significant price cut, while still hefty, positions Samsung as a strong contender in the XR gaming and immersive tech arena.
The Galaxy XR was first teased in January 2023, but today’s full announcement reveals crucial details that tech enthusiasts have been eagerly awaiting. While the Galaxy XR comes with a price tag that is $300 higher than the original Meta Quest Pro, which debuted at $1,500, its features are designed to deliver a premium experience that rivals Apple’s offering.
Samsung’s Galaxy XR boasts a micro-OLED display with an impressive resolution of 3,552 x 3,840 pixels per eye, closely matching the Vision Pro’s 3,660 x 3,200 pixels. The headset supports a refresh rate of up to 90Hz, slightly lower than the Vision Pro’s maximum of 120Hz. This puts Samsung’s new device in direct competition with Apple’s flagship, offering consumers a comparable experience at a significantly reduced price.
The user interface is built around advanced hand and eye tracking capabilities, allowing users to interact within virtual environments without the need for traditional controllers. For those who prefer a controller-based experience, Samsung is offering optional controllers for an additional $250, bringing the total cost to over $2,000.
In terms of battery life, the Galaxy XR is rated for 2 hours of general use and 2.5 hours for video playback, while the Vision Pro offers 2.5 hours and 3 hours respectively. Both devices utilize external battery packs to enhance comfort during extended use.
Samsung’s collaboration with Google and Qualcomm has produced a headset that supports a multitude of applications, including gaming and immersive sports experiences. The Galaxy XR also includes features powered by Gemini, such as a gaming coach and enhanced integration with popular Google services like YouTube and Google Maps.
One notable advantage of the Galaxy XR is its weight, tipping the scales at 545 grams, significantly lighter than the Vision Pro, which weighs between 750 to 800 grams. This could potentially lead to greater comfort for users, an important factor for long-term wear.
Samsung is making the Galaxy XR available immediately on Samsung.com and in Samsung Experience Stores, with financing options of 12 to 24 months for customers who may find the upfront cost daunting.
As tech enthusiasts weigh their options, the Galaxy XR’s launch adds excitement to the XR market, but questions remain about whether its features justify the price tag. With its competitive pricing and high-end specifications, Samsung aims to capture a substantial share of the growing virtual reality and augmented reality market.
Stay tuned for more updates as we monitor user reviews and performance feedback on Samsung’s latest innovation.