Samsung’s ‘Moohan’ Set to Challenge Apple’s Vision Pro
Samsung, Google, and Qualcomm are collaborating on “Project Moohan,” aiming to provide an Android-based extended reality (XR) headset as a direct competitor to Apple’s Vision Pro. This upcoming device, which translates to “infinity” in Korean, signifies Samsung’s ambitious push into the immersive XR market, potentially reshaping how users experience digital content.
Design and Features
The Moohan headset, designed by Samsung, bears a striking resemblance to the Apple Vision Pro. However, it has some key distinctions. For instance, Moohan will not display the user’s eyes externally, and its battery cable is designed to work with any external power bank, giving it greater flexibility. The device relies heavily on voice control using Google’s Gemini AI, while also retaining support for eye, hand, and peripheral inputs.
The Moohan boasts a touchpad on its right strap, providing further input options. The design prioritizes balanced weight distribution, with an adjustment knob at the rear to fine-tune the fit. Both the top and bottom light seals are optional, giving users the ability to stay connected to their surroundings if they choose.
Hardware and Software
Under the hood, the Moohan will incorporate a Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 processor. This chip is specifically optimized for extended reality, promising better performance and improved graphics. The visuals will be delivered through high-resolution 4K micro-OLED panels, rumored to be sourced from Sony.
Qualcomm and Google are working together to expand the platform, and we can expect other manufacturers such as Lynx, Sony, and XREAL to build Android XR devices. This headset is the first to be developed on the Android XR platform, a special OS created by Google for extended reality (XR) with AI at its core, ensuring compatibility with the Google Play Store.
The AI Edge
The integration of Gemini is what will likely distinguish this device. Gemini will utilize the cameras and microphones in the headset to view and hear the real world. This enables users to ask contextual queries and get information about their surroundings, and even carry on a conversation. The exact capabilities of Gemini remain to be seen, but Google claims it can understand your intent, assist with planning, research, and guide you through various tasks.
“Though the form factor and the hardware may look similar, what would likely set this device apart is Gemini integration.”
—Varun Krishnan
Imagine having an AI-powered personal fitness trainer on your Moohan, playing games with friends across the globe, or learning to drive in a safe setting. Its form factor is ideal for home or office environments. Productivity and entertainment applications are expected to thrive on the Moohan.
Market Positioning
Following delays, the product’s release is planned for late 2025. It will initially target developers building for the Android XR platform. While the Apple Vision Pro costs $3,499, and the Meta Quest 3 starts at $499, it’s uncertain what price Samsung will set for the Moohan, which is marketed as a premium product with AI features. In the XR market, the global virtual reality market size was valued at USD 28.30 billion in 2021 and is projected to reach USD 86.83 billion by 2028 (Fortune Business Insights).