Samsung is set to launch a new headset driven by Android XR, which remarkably resembles the Apple Vision Pro. While some may find it troubling that Samsung is inspired by Apple, this development could bode well for existing Vision Pro users.
The Vision Pro is inspiring its competition
With the launch of Vision Pro, Apple has been viewed as a pioneer, setting the stage for a transformative leap in technology.
Featuring seamless eye and hand tracking, a strong emphasis on productivity, and operating as a legitimate computer, Apple has showcased a unique approach to AR and VR.
Now, however, Samsung and Google are collaborating to produce a device that bears a striking similarity.
It is reported that their device will be lighter and likely priced below Vision Pro, although specific pricing and release dates have not been disclosed yet.
After reviewing multiple hands-on previews, I believe Apple now faces significant competition.
This is undoubtedly a positive development.
For further reading from 9to5Google:
Now the competition can push Vision Pro forward
As someone deeply invested in the Apple ecosystem, it would require considerable effort for me to switch.
I have a feeling that if I tried Samsung’s unnamed headset, I would have a number of criticisms, as I generally find Samsung and Android products somewhat frustrating to navigate.
Nonetheless, this new headset may encourage Apple to accelerate innovations with the Vision Pro and any upcoming Vision products.
For instance, Google’s integration of Gemini into the Android XR operating system is fascinating.
As Mark Gurman noted in Bloomberg:
Google has spent several years developing Android XR but “paused” to revamp the software to center around AI. The AI functionalities are now integral to the operating system. For example, glasses with Android XR can utilize external cameras to assess newly acquired furniture and provide assembly instructions. On a headset, it can perform tasks like mapping out vacations using Google Maps.
The effectiveness of these features remains to be seen, but weaving AI into an XR headset seems like a logical step.
Apple should definitely consider making AI a fundamental aspect of visionOS moving forward.
However, if competitors like Samsung and Google weren’t in the picture, it’s uncertain whether Apple would feel compelled to fully maximize the Vision Pro’s capabilities.
While there are other VR entities like Meta, they predominantly seem to concentrate on gaming. What Samsung and Google are developing appears to align more closely with the innovative vision that Apple has for the Vision Pro.
If this new offering didn’t exist, Apple might be tempted to slow down its advancements with the Vision Pro and visionOS.
Now, spurred on by its traditional competitors, Apple can give heightened priority to elevating the Vision Pro to its utmost potential.
What are your thoughts on Samsung’s new headset? Would you classify it as a Vision Pro clone? Why or why not? Share your opinions in the comments.
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