- AI-Powered Innovation: Project Moohan integrates Google’s Gemini AI, enabling real-time interaction and intelligent environment analysis, setting it apart from Apple’s Vision Pro.
- Flexible Power Options: Unlike competitors, Moohan’s external battery connects via USB-C, allowing users to extend usage with third-party high-capacity power banks.
- Expanding XR Ecosystem: Samsung positions Moohan as a reference model to inspire manufacturers, potentially leading to a diverse range of XR devices at various price points.
Samsung’s highly anticipated XR headset, currently known as Project Moohan, was showcased at the recent Galaxy Unpacked event. While no live demonstrations were permitted at the launch, YouTuber Marques Brownlee (MKBHD) has since had hands-on time with the device, offering the first real insights into its capabilities. Early impressions suggest that Moohan shares many design similarities with the Apple Vision Pro, including a sleek glass front panel. However, Samsung appears to be setting its device apart with key features aimed at flexibility and AI integration.
One notable difference is Moohan’s head strap, which is reminiscent of the Meta Quest Pro, offering a comfortable and secure fit. Additionally, the headset features removable light blockers and an external battery pack that connects via a standard USB-C port. This design choice could be a game-changer, allowing users to swap in larger third-party batteries, unlike the fixed-capacity battery of the Vision Pro. With USB-C power banks available in significantly higher capacities, Moohan may offer extended usability far beyond its competitors.
While hardware plays a crucial role, Samsung’s real advantage may lie in artificial intelligence. Unlike the Vision Pro, which currently lacks AI integration, Moohan is built around Google’s Gemini AI, allowing users to interact in ways that go beyond a traditional mobile or XR experience. The headset can process real-time commands via Gemini Live, using its sensors to analyze surroundings and provide instant feedback. This feature mirrors elements of Apple’s Visual Intelligence and Meta’s AI Vision, but with the added benefit of Google’s advanced AI ecosystem.
The AI capabilities extend to apps, with Gemini assisting users directly within software environments. Although it remains unclear if this applies to all Android apps or only those optimized for XR, the potential to streamline navigation without relying solely on hand gestures is significant. Moohan also integrates Google’s Circle to Search, a feature that allows users to intuitively search for information within their field of view. Additionally, Samsung’s Android XR platform grants access to Google Play’s entire app catalog alongside a growing selection of XR-optimized applications.
Despite the promising features, Moohan remains a prototype, and its final design and software experience may evolve before launch. Brownlee noted that Samsung appears to be positioning it similarly to Google’s Nexus or Pixel line—an innovative reference model intended to guide manufacturers toward expanding the XR ecosystem. This strategy could lead to a wider range of XR devices at varying price points, potentially making the technology more accessible. However, Samsung has yet to announce pricing, leaving questions about affordability. With Apple still refining its long-term Vision Pro strategy, Android’s adaptable ecosystem might accelerate the XR industry’s evolution, bringing immersive computing to a broader audience.
