Samsung’s XR Headset Faces Uphill Battle as Apple Preps Vision Pro 2 Launch

Samsung is preparing to launch its first extended reality headset. The device, likely named Galaxy XR, may debut as soon as October. This move comes two years after the tech giant first hinted at its XR ambitions.

The timing, however, may be problematic. According to Bloomberg, Apple is planning its own major product announcements. This could include a second-generation Vision Pro headset, threatening to overshadow Samsung’s entry before it even begins.

Apple’s Second-Gen Vision Pro Aims to Solidify Market Lead

The reported Apple Vision Pro 2 is expected to feature a significant upgrade. It will reportedly be powered by a new M5 chip. This processor is said to be fabricated on TSMC’s advanced 3nm process node.

This new chip would offer a major performance leap. It would far outpace the M2 chip inside the first Vision Pro. The new model may also include a redesigned, more ergonomic head strap for improved user comfort.

Technical Disparity and Market Timing Create Challenges

In contrast, Samsung’s Galaxy XR is expected to use the Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 chip. This Qualcomm processor is built on Samsung Foundry’s 4nm technology. Its CPU cores are based on older smartphone architecture from five years ago.

This technical comparison suggests a potential performance gap. The Galaxy XR’s chip may be slower than even the first-generation Apple Vision Pro’s M2. With a later launch and potentially less powerful hardware, Samsung’s competitive strategy is under scrutiny. The company may instead focus on its Android XR OS and Google Gemini AI integration to differentiate its product.

The race for XR dominance is intensifying, but Samsung’s long-awaited headset may face immediate and formidable competition from a more established rival.

Thought you’d like to know

When will the Samsung Galaxy XR be released?

Reports suggest a potential announcement on October 21, 2024. An official launch and retail availability would likely follow soon after that date.

What chip will power the new Apple Vision Pro?

The second-generation Apple Vision Pro is expected to feature the new M5 chip. This represents a significant upgrade from the M2 chip in the first model.

How does the Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 compare to Apple’s M-series chips?

Based on reported specifications, the Snapdragon chip may be less powerful. It uses older CPU core designs and a different manufacturing process than Apple’s latest silicon.

What is the Android XR OS?

It is Google’s operating system designed specifically for extended reality headsets. The Samsung Galaxy XR is expected to be the first major device to run on this platform.

Why is the timing a challenge for Samsung?

Apple may announce its second-generation headset just as Samsung unveils its first. This could immediately position Samsung’s product as playing catch-up in the consumer market.

Trusted Sources

Bloomberg