Samsung has officially entered the mixed reality world with its all-new Galaxy XR, and it’s clear the company has done its homework. The headset looks like something straight out of a sci-fi movie — a futuristic skiing mask that feels lighter than expected. The balance is excellent, and though you might feel a bit of forehead pressure after long use, short breaks easily solve that. The only mild inconvenience is the cable connected to the external battery pack, which can be tucked into your pocket. Still, the overall comfort and build quality make the Galaxy XR feel like a truly premium mixed reality headset.
Intuitive Eye and Hand Controls – No Controllers Needed
Using the Galaxy XR is an entirely new kind of experience. Everything is controlled by your eyes and hands — look at an object to highlight it, pinch your fingers to select, or move your hands to zoom in and out. Opening the main menu is as simple as pinching your fingers with your palm facing you.
After just a few minutes, this controller-free system feels natural and intuitive, much smoother than traditional VR controllers. For those who still prefer physical controls, Samsung does offer first-party controllers separately for around $250.
Android XR: Samsung’s Biggest Advantage Over Apple Vision Pro
The Galaxy XR doesn’t just differ from the Apple Vision Pro in weight or looks — its software is a major game changer. It runs on Android XR, a brand-new operating system that feels very familiar to Galaxy smartphone users.You get full access to the Google Play Store, meaning you can download apps like Netflix, Prime Video, Telegram, and games directly — no special versions needed. This gives Samsung’s headset a huge advantage in versatility and convenience.
Under the hood, it’s powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 chip, delivering smooth, stable performance with no lag or frame drops. Whether switching apps, watching 3D videos, or exploring virtual cities, everything feels fluid and responsive.The built-in spatial audio is another win. The speakers are loud and clear, and the sound adjusts as you move your head, giving a real sense of space. For full immersion, you can pair Galaxy Buds and block out the world completely.
AI-Powered Smart Features: Google Gemini and Circle to Search
The passthrough experience is stunning — two external high-resolution cameras let you see the real world in full clarity. A double-tap on the frame instantly switches between your environment and the virtual world. Samsung has integrated Google Gemini and Circle to Search directly into the headset. Simply look at an object, draw a circle in the air, and get AI-generated information right in front of your eyes. It’s not just futuristic — it’s genuinely practical and helpful.
You can even use Gemini for virtual workspace setup, live recipe help, or entertainment suggestions — all hands-free.
Battery Life and Final Thoughts
The 36 Wh battery lasts about two hours of mixed reality use or 2.5 hours of video playback, which matches Samsung’s claim. You can plug in the external battery for continuous use when stationary.
Overall, the Galaxy XR is an impressive debut for Samsung in the mixed reality space. It’s sleek, comfortable, and smartly integrated with Google’s ecosystem — offering a more open and flexible experience than the Apple Vision Pro.
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