Samsung launches Galaxy XR — the first Android XR Headset with Google’s new AI experience

Samsung has officially released the Galaxy XR, its first extended reality (XR) headset powered by Google’s new Android XR platform. First teased last December as Project Moohan, the device is now available for $1,799 in the US and South Korea.

The Galaxy XR runs on Android XR, an operating system built around Google’s Gemini AI. It allows users to control apps through hand gestures, eye movement, or voice commands. Popular Google apps — including Maps, Photos, Meet, Chrome, TV, and YouTube — have been redesigned for XR, offering immersive 3D and spatial experiences.

With Google Maps’ Immersive View, users can explore cities or landmarks in 3D and even ask Gemini for background information about what they’re viewing. Circle to Search works on both virtual and real-world objects through passthrough mode. YouTube now features 180- and 360-degree videos, while Google TV brings a virtual theater experience. Streaming apps like HBO Max, Peacock, and Crunchyroll are also supported.

Gemini AI plays an active role throughout. For example, while watching sports, users can ask Gemini for real-time player stats without leaving the video. Over 50 new XR apps are available, along with millions of regular Android apps from the Play Store.

For work, users can multitask with floating windows, use Google Meet in 3D space, and connect a keyboard, mouse, or even a PC for a full desktop-like setup. Adobe’s Project Pulsar and TopHatch’s Concepts app add creative tools to the experience.

The headset’s design balances weight across the forehead and back with soft padding and an adjustable rear knob. It weighs 545g (plus a 302g external battery pack) and features 4K Micro-OLED displays with up to a 90Hz refresh rate and 109° horizontal field of view. The Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 chip powers it with 16GB RAM and 256GB storage, along with Bluetooth 5.4 and Wi-Fi 7 support.

Cameras and sensors enable high-resolution passthrough, world tracking, and eye tracking, plus iris recognition for unlocking. Audio comes from a dual speaker system with six microphones.

The Galaxy XR is available through Samsung’s website and Experience Stores. Optional accessories include a $249.99 XR controller and a travel case. Early buyers get an Explorer Pack worth over $1,000 — including Google AI Pro, YouTube Premium, Google Play Pass, NBA League Pass, and more.