On the 24th of last month, I put on Samsung Electronics’ extended reality (XR) headset, the ‘Galaxy XR,’ and activated it. The real-world view in front of me remained intact. Pressing the button in the upper-right corner summoned basic apps like YouTube, Netflix, and Google Photos into the air. Pointing at the YouTube app and pinching my thumb and index finger caused YouTube videos to line up in midair. Playing a virtual reality (VR) video of traveling through Oslo, Norway, surrounded me with 360-degree views of the city’s streets. When I asked the AI Gemini, “Recommend videos of other cities,” a VR video of a Swiss small town immediately appeared, giving me the feeling of traveling to another country instantly.
I tested the Galaxy XR, released by Samsung on the 22nd of last month, for three days. The Galaxy XR is a headset that realizes an XR environment bridging the real and virtual worlds. Samsung emphasized its content and AI competitiveness compared to competitors like Meta’s ‘Quest 3’ and Apple’s ‘Vision Pro.’ I could freely use various apps unavailable on competing products. The AI features were also seamlessly integrated into all apps and functions, acting like a personal assistant.
◇All Content in VR
The Galaxy XR can be controlled via gaze, hand gestures, and voice. When first worn, a ‘pass-through’ screen displaying the real world appears. Pressing the upper-right button or pinching (touching the thumb and index finger) with the palm facing the body opens the home screen apps. Selecting an app launches it in midair, where it can be manipulated by hand. Additional settings allow gaze-based direction selection and pinch-to-launch functionality. An external battery must be connected during use.
Hardware performance was stable. At 545 grams, it wasn’t entirely lightweight but fell between Meta Quest 3 (515 grams) and Apple Vision Pro (750 grams). Unlike competitors, which place weight on the cheekbones, the Galaxy XR secures to the forehead via a dial on the rear. This design reduced discomfort during prolonged use. The lens position adjusted automatically based on eye alignment, ensuring consistent focus. If not worn properly, the device guided adjustments, such as “move left” or “turn right.” First-time XR users would likely adapt without difficulty. Sensors for gaze, hand, and depth tracking functioned reliably.
The biggest advantage was content diversity. Unlike competitors requiring website access for YouTube or Netflix, the Galaxy XR natively supports these apps. This made VR video consumption far more convenient.
The Google Photos app converted existing 2D photos into 3D. In Google Meet, video calls felt like face-to-face conversations. The pre-made ‘Galaxy Avatar’ (a virtual character modeled after the user) mirrored expressions and hand movements with minimal lag. All apps from the Google Play Store were freely accessible.
AI features, developed in collaboration with Google, were well-implemented. Holding the top button or saying “Hey Google” summoned Gemini in any environment. Requesting, “Play VR-supported basketball videos,” prompted YouTube to find relevant content. Saying, “Organize the windows,” arranged cluttered apps in a straight line. Asking, “Find restaurants near Gwanghwamun,” displayed recommendations on Google Maps, with an ‘Immersive View’ allowing virtual exploration. Using the ‘Circle to Search’ feature on a real-world flower identified it as an amaryllis.
◇Time Needed for Mastery
Adapting to the XR device required some time. The ‘pinch’ gesture sometimes went unrecognized unless performed exaggeratedly. Voice commands via Gemini were more convenient than pinch gestures for most app controls.
A related issue was keyboard input. Entering passwords, IDs, or emails via pinch on a dense keyboard was cumbersome. A separate controller (330,000 Korean won) is sold for easier manipulation, but its high price is a barrier. Enabling ‘Touch Control’ in the settings’ lab allowed password input by mimicking smartphone touches, partially resolving the issue.
The Galaxy XR seems suited for those seeking a premium XR device. It surpasses the Meta Quest 3 (700,000 Korean won) in display and content. Apple’s Vision Pro, at 800 grams and 5,000,000 Korean won, is less accessible. The Galaxy XR offers immersive video content and AI at half the price of the Vision Pro, with a relatively lighter weight.
