Samsung Launches Galaxy XR: Half the Price of Vision Pro

UPDATE: Samsung has officially launched the **Galaxy XR** today, marking a significant entry into the immersive tech market. Priced at **$1,799.99**, this device offers consumers a compelling alternative to Apple’s **Vision Pro** at nearly half the cost, along with over **$1,000 in freebies**.

The Galaxy XR, powered by **Android XR** and the **Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2** chipset, is available for purchase **right now**. This launch is crucial as it positions Samsung as a serious competitor in the rapidly evolving landscape of augmented and virtual reality devices.

Won-Joon Choi, Chief Operating Officer of Mobile eXperience at Samsung Electronics, stated,

“With Galaxy XR, Samsung is introducing a brand-new ecosystem of mobile devices. Built on Android XR, Galaxy XR expands the vision for mobile AI into a new frontier of immersive and meaningful possibilities.”

This ambitious vision aims to elevate XR technology from mere concept to an everyday reality for users and industries alike.

During a hands-on experience in **New York City**, I found the Galaxy XR impressive, despite some limitations in practicality. One notable feature showcased was a **3D immersive maps experience** that allows users to find local eateries. While the demo was visually stunning, the practicality of using a headset for such tasks remains questionable. Most users will likely opt to check their phones instead.

The true standout feature of the Galaxy XR is its ability to display **spatial videos**. Any YouTube creator can easily enable their content for 3D viewing, enhancing the immersive experience. While there are still unanswered questions about viewing flexibility, the potential to explore **3D images** of houses on platforms like **Zillow** illustrates the device’s capabilities.

However, after a **30-minute demo**, comfort became a concern, as the device felt slightly front-heavy. It’s a reminder that while immersive technology is advancing, long-term wearability remains a challenge. Pass-through video quality was commendable, allowing users to interact with their surroundings while using the headset.

The affordability of the Galaxy XR is significant when compared to the **Apple Vision Pro**, which carries a hefty price tag of **$3,499**. With the Galaxy XR’s pricing and incentives, the effective cost drops to around **$800** for early adopters interested in immersive technology. The included **Explorer Pack** offers a year of **AI Pro**, **YouTube Premium**, **Google Play Pass**, and short-term subscriptions to **YouTube TV** and other services.

As Samsung pushes the boundaries of mobile XR experiences, they are aiming to attract those willing to invest in cutting-edge technology. The Galaxy XR is positioned as a device that blends entertainment, productivity, and exploration, appealing to those excited about the future of immersive experiences.

What’s Next: Early adopters and tech enthusiasts should watch for user feedback as more people begin to experience the Galaxy XR. It remains to be seen if this device will gain traction in the market, but its launch represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of XR technology.

Stay tuned for more updates as this developing story unfolds. The Galaxy XR could redefine how we interact with digital content.