Samsung has recently teased its latest innovation: a new Android XR headset, and while details are scarce, there are two major revelations that VR fans and developers alike will be excited about.
Dubbed ‘Project Moohan,’ this headset is slated to be the first Android XR device available next year. During our exclusive hands-on, the headset utilized both hand-tracking and eye-tracking for input. However, Samsung has also announced plans to produce its own motion controllers, which will be fully supported by the Android XR platform.
This development is pivotal as it means that the vast array of existing VR applications designed around motion controllers could make a seamless transition to Android XR without needing to overhaul their core designs. This stands in contrast to Apple’s Vision Pro, which lacks motion controller support, presenting challenges for the most popular VR content when considering compatibility with Apple’s system.
While Samsung hasn’t delved into specifics about the Project Moohan controllers, they have shared that these will be ready in time for the headset’s release in 2025. It’s still up in the air whether these controllers will be packaged with the headset or offered as separate purchases.
In addition to this, both Samsung and Google have reassured users that Android XR will offer PC VR streaming support on the Project Moohan and future headsets. This means users can stream PC VR content from a gaming PC to their device, granting access to a vast library of content via SteamVR. This often translates to enhanced graphics and an expanded range of mods.
Despite this confirmation, specific details remain vague. It is uncertain whether Android XR will feature an integrated PC VR streaming tool similar to the Quest, or if Google is simply opening the platform to third-party streaming applications. The latter seems more likely, especially as Virtual Desktop, a popular third-party app for PC VR streaming, is already being developed for Android XR.
To delve deeper into Android XR and what’s in store for Samsung’s cutting-edge headset, be sure to check out our detailed announcement article and hands-on experience.
