Samsung and Google have announced the launch of the Galaxy XR, the first device running Android XR, a new operating system designed specifically for immersive, spatial computing. The headset is the result of a close collaboration between the two companies, aiming to bring Android’s flexibility to the emerging field of extended reality (XR), which blends virtual and augmented reality environments.
The Galaxy XR was unveiled as a standalone headset, integrating real-world awareness with digital applications, powered by Google’s Gemini AI.
Android XR marks Google’s official entry into purpose-built operating systems for immersive headsets and glasses. Unlike general-purpose Android or wearable variants, Android XR is optimized for spatial input methods such as eye tracking, hand gestures, and voice. It also supports passthrough video, allowing users to remain aware of their environment while interacting with virtual elements.
Samsung’s Galaxy XR is the first commercial device to run the new platform. It offers access to Android apps via Google Play, including versions of Google Maps, Chrome, Meet, and YouTube that have been adapted for spatial use. Existing mobile apps can also be run in a large virtual interface.
AI Integration Through Gemini
A key component of the Galaxy XR experience is Gemini, Google’s AI assistant, which is integrated throughout the system. Gemini enables contextual awareness — for example, recognizing what’s on screen, identifying landmarks in Maps, or offering in-app assistance based on what the user is doing.
New features like “Circle to Search” let users quickly pull information from the web by simply gesturing around virtual or real-world objects.
Focus on Media, Exploration, and Productivity
At launch, Samsung and Google highlighted three main use cases for the Galaxy XR: immersive media consumption, virtual exploration, and productivity.
The headset supports spatial video playback through YouTube and Google TV, including access to 180- and 360-degree content. Google Photos now offers automatic 3D conversion of traditional 2D photos and videos, allowing users to view past memories in a new format.
In Maps, the new “Immersive View” feature provides interactive 3D flyovers of locations around the world. With Gemini integrated, users can ask questions about buildings or landmarks while navigating a virtual environment.
On the productivity side, Android XR allows users to position and resize multiple apps within a 3D space. Apps like Chrome, Docs, and Spotify can be run simultaneously, and the system supports external keyboards, mice, and PC integration. Creative tools, including a new video editor from Adobe and a sketching app from TopHatch, were also announced as XR-optimized.
The Galaxy XR is available through Samsung’s website, select Samsung Experience Stores, and Google retail locations in New York and California. The retail price is $1,799 USD (monthly installment option starting at $149).
Samsung is also offering a promotional “Explorer Pack” for early buyers, including limited-time access to Google’s AI Pro features, streaming services, and exclusive XR content. This offer varies by region.
The launch of Android XR and Galaxy XR places Samsung and Google directly into competition with Apple’s Vision Pro and Meta’s Quest platform. By anchoring their headset in the Android ecosystem and supporting open standards like OpenXR, WebXR and Unity, the two companies are positioning their platform as both developer-friendly and widely accessible.
More XR devices based on Android XR are expected, but no additional hardware partners have been announced as of yet.
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