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Google and Samsung Launch Android XR for Mixed Reality, Debuting in 2025

Dec 12, 2024, 04:45 PM

Google, in collaboration with Samsung and Qualcomm, has unveiled Android XR, a new operating system designed for extended reality (XR) devices including headsets and smart glasses. This platform aims to transform how users interact with digital information in real-world environments. The first device to feature Android XR will be Samsung's mixed reality headset, Project Moohan, set for release in 2025. This headset will incorporate state-of-the-art displays, eye tracking, and hand tracking, powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 chipset. Android XR promises seamless integration with existing Google services like Maps, Photos, YouTube, and Chrome, enhancing the user experience with AI capabilities from Google's Gemini. Developers have access to Android XR now, with the platform supporting tools like ARCore, Android Studio, Unity, and OpenXR, encouraging the creation of new apps and games for upcoming XR devices. Google also plans to introduce smart glasses with AI functionalities, marking a significant push into the XR market to compete with Apple's Vision Pro and Meta's offerings. Other hardware partners include Sony, Lynx, XREAL, and Magic Leap.