Samsung’s long-awaited entry into the XR (extended reality) space might finally be on the verge of launch. According to recent hints from PandaFlash, a known Samsung-focused leaker, the tech giant could unveil its first standalone Android XR headset as early as next month — but with a twist: the launch may happen exclusively in South Korea.
Samsung Unpacked — But Where?
Rumors suggest that the debut could coincide with Samsung’s upcoming Unpacked event in July. However, things get complicated here. While the headset may be aimed initially at the Korean market, the Unpacked event itself is expected to take place in New York City. That has raised questions about how a Korea-only product would fit into a U.S.-based launch event — unless, of course, Samsung plans to showcase the headset but delay its international rollout.
A Glimpse Into the Past and Present
Samsung originally teased this XR headset over two years ago, revealing that it was co-developing the device with Google (handling the software) and Qualcomm (providing the chip). The chipset in question was later confirmed to be the Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 — a higher-performance variant of the processor used in devices like the Quest 3 and 3S. This same chip is already shipping in some other mixed reality products.
The actual design of Samsung’s headset wasn’t shown until December last year. That’s when Google also officially introduced the “Android XR” branding. Samsung made it clear the product would ship in 2025, even offering select hands-on demos.
Recent Leaks and Reports
March brought a wave of new information from South Korea. Reports revealed that the headset will feature Sony’s new 1.35-inch micro-OLED display with a resolution of 3552×3840 — potentially offering higher resolution and a wider color gamut than Apple’s Vision Pro.
Additionally, sources claimed Samsung is planning to produce only about 100,000 units annually. That low production volume hints at a high price tag and a premium market target — likely aimed at developers and early adopters rather than the mass consumer market.
So, What’s Next?
Despite many expecting major updates at Google I/O in May, the focus there was on smart glasses and a different Android XR project — Xreal’s Project Aura. Samsung’s headset remained absent from the spotlight.
But with July around the corner and the Unpacked event looming, anticipation is once again building. Will Samsung quietly launch its XR headset in its home country and gradually expand to other markets? Or will we see a broader reveal with a staggered release?
For now, all signs point to a very near launch — but as always with high-end tech, the real reveal may be full of surprises.
