After two failed attempts with Google Glass and Daydream, Google is having another go at AR and VR with a new Android XR platform, which will power a Samsung headset next year.

Android XR is Google's new operating system to compete with Apple's visionOS in Apple Vision Pro and Meta's Horizon OS (Android-based) in the Quest headsets.

- "Today, we're introducing Android XR, a new operating system built for this next generation of computing. Created in collaboration with Samsung, Android XR combines years of investment in AI, AR and VR to bring helpful experiences to headsets and glasses," announced Shahram Izadi, VP & GM of XR at Google.


XR = VR, AR and MR
Google uses "eXtended reality" (XR) as an umbrella term for virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR) and mixed reality (MR).

Android XR will let you see the real world through cameras in the headset or be fully immersed in a virtual environment. It lets you open one or more apps or content in virtual windows. It will launch with VR-optimized apps such as YouTube, Google TV, Google Photos and Google Maps.

Google said that AI technology will play a role in enhancing the XR platform, which will also support standard Android mobile and tablet apps as well as streaming of PC VR content via apps.




First headset in 2025
Google's launch partner for Android XR is Samsung who will launch an Android XR-based headset, dubbed Project Moohan, in 2025 to compete with Meta Quest and Apple Vision Pro.

- "Code named “Project Moohan”, the first headset designed for Android XR is poised to bring this experience to life in the near future. The name “Moohan”, meaning ‘infinity’ in Korean, connotes our belief in delivering unparalleled, immersive experiences within an infinite space. Equipped with state-of-the-art displays, Passthrough capabilities and natural multi-modal input, this headset will be your spatial canvas to explore the world through Google Maps, enjoy a sports match on YouTube or plan trips with the help of Gemini. All these experiences come with lightweight, ergonomically optimized hardware designed to ensure maximum comfort during use," said Samsung.


 Samsung's 'Project Moohan' headset will launch in 2025. Photo: Samsung

OLED or micro-LED displays, or bust
Samsung did not provide many details and did not specify the most important component, the displays, other than saying that they will be "state-of-the-art".

Considering Samsung's display making prowess, we would be disappointed by anything less than high-resolution OLED or micro-LED displays, although the Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 chip in the headset will set limitations for the resolution.

The headset will be controlled with eye and hand tracking, although you must raise your hands to interact. Samsung said that VR controllers will be available, but no further details were provided.

Full details on the headset, including pricing, will be announced later.