In today’s fast-paced digital world, technology often feels like science fiction becoming reality. Samsung has taken a step toward that future with the Galaxy XR, a headset that balances the virtual and real worlds. After using Galaxy XR for a week, it became clear that this device offers a surprising taste of AR experiences, especially for those who found Apple’s Vision Pro bulky and overwhelming.
Design and Hardware of Galaxy XR
The Galaxy XR is lightweight and comfortable, weighing just 1.2 pounds compared to Apple Vision Pro’s 1.7 pounds. Its plastic construction and dome-like forehead cushion make it sit comfortably on your forehead and the back of your head, without putting pressure on your nose or cheeks. Wearing it feels more like ski goggles than a traditional headset.
One of the standout features is its open design, allowing you to see the real world around you. This blending of virtual and reality makes tasks like checking notifications or using a Bluetooth keyboard seamless. For full immersion, magnetic shields can be attached at the bottom. The 4K per-eye resolution delivers crisp virtual content, though phone or laptop screens can still appear slightly blurry.
Controls and Hand Tracking
Hand tracking on Galaxy XR is accurate and intuitive. Daily gestures work smoothly, eliminating the need for extra controllers. The top edge features a volume rocker and multifunction button, while a side touchpad lets you recenter your view and switch between virtual and real environments, though it feels somewhat unnecessary.
Wearing Galaxy XR with glasses works well, and eye-tracking is functional, though prescription inserts will further improve the experience. The cooling fan is noticeable during use, but it doesn’t interfere significantly with viewing content.
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Android XR Software Experience
Galaxy XR runs on Android XR, offering a familiar interface similar to Samsung smartphones and tablets. Apps can be resized to tablet or phone modes, giving flexibility in productivity. Optimized apps like YouTube, Google Maps, and Google Photos offer AR-specific experiences.
However, some limitations remain. The Chrome browser lacks full desktop features, voice input is still the primary text method, and Samsung’s Avatars are cartoonish rather than photorealistic. Despite these issues, Android XR is intuitive, versatile, and leverages floating screens effectively for work and entertainment.
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Content Consumption and Productivity
Galaxy XR’s biggest advantage is its potential to replace multiple in-home devices. Laptops, desktops, and TVs can be substituted with AR screens for work or entertainment. I managed to write this review entirely using Google Keep and a Bluetooth keyboard. Streaming content like Netflix and YouTube TV is smooth and immersive.
The main trade-off is wearing a headset and using a battery pack, which might deter casual users. Still, this device hints at a future where headsets could become as popular as tablets, offering unique interaction advantages through AR.
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The Galaxy XR provides an early look at the future of augmented reality. Its lightweight, non-immersive hardware combined with Android XR creates a compelling experience. While not a mass-market device, it’s an exciting gadget for enthusiasts. The full potential of Android XR in smart glasses may take years, but Galaxy XR gives a glimpse of what’s possible today.
Disclaimer: This review reflects personal experience with Samsung Galaxy XR. Individual experiences may vary based on usage conditions.
