Back in February 2023, during the Galaxy Unpacked event, Samsung made waves with its announcement of a collaborative effort alongside Google and Qualcomm to pioneer a new XR headset. Notably, TM Roh, the President of Samsung’s MX Division, hinted at an imminent launch for this intriguing XR headset.
Regrettably, it seems Samsung has encountered obstacles in turning their vision into reality, as the prospects of the XR headset’s official release have faded. The emergence of Apple’s Vision Pro headset prompted a pivotal shift in Samsung’s strategy, resulting in the abandonment of their initial prototype in favor of an evolved XR headset.
Recently, a series of leaked images and specifications have emerged, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the XR headset that never was. These leaks gained traction on the Chinese platform Vrtuoluo.
Upon close inspection of the images, it’s evident that the Samsung XR headset draws inspiration from the Galaxy VR, yet stands apart with its distinctive features. Most notably, the front panel boasts an arrangement of four cameras, a marked departure from the norm.
Sporting an OLED display and a relatively sturdy front cover, the XR headset takes an innovative approach to control mechanisms, relying on eye and hand tracking as opposed to conventional physical controllers. Powering this endeavor is the Exynos 2200 SoC, signaling Samsung’s commitment to cutting-edge technology.
Despite the excitement, Samsung’s decision to halt the project has left lingering questions. A direct comparison to Apple’s XR Vision Pro headset reveals the larger form factor of Samsung’s prototype, which could potentially raise ergonomic concerns due to its greater weight.
In a curious twist, rumors circulate that despite the absence of an official launch, Samsung’s XR headset could present a more budget-friendly alternative to Apple’s Vision Pro, estimated to range between USD 1,000 and USD 2,000.
As the plot thickens, the anticipated debut of the XR headset now faces a delay until 2024. This strategic move aims to bolster its competitive edge and address the looming presence of the Vision Pro product. It remains to be seen if Samsung can sculpt a sleeker, more user-friendly design, breathing life into their XR headset ambitions.
