Samsung’s new Galaxy XR headset is the world’s first Android XR device and a proper competitor to Apple’s Vision Pro. At $1,799 it’s a lot more affordable than Apple’s headset, but Samsung is actually charging an extra $250 for the case and controllers — and no, that’s not a combined price tag.
The Galaxy XR headset, previously known as “Project Mohan,” launched last night for $1,799. The headset offers deep Gemini integration, full access to the library of tablet apps from the Play Store, and dozens of XR experiences like Calm, Fox Sports, MLB, and others.
Although there’s no obvious push toward productivity or gaming with the Galaxy XR, a common thought when looking at a headset centers around gaming. As such, Samsung has released a pair of controllers that you can use with the headset.
This is correct. Samsung’s wireless controllers for the Galaxy XR cost about the same as the base Meta Quest 3S, which itself comes with a pair of comparable controllers. Meta sells spares for $75 each – So $150 for a pair.
What do these controllers do? Samsung states:
Enjoy intuitive remote control on the Galaxy XR using dual VST controllers. Equipped with 6 DOF tracking technology and analog stick, the controllers provide precise interactions in 3D space for better experiences.
Immerse yourself in exciting gaming and immersive content with Galaxy XR controllers. Haptic feedback lets you experience solid controller responses when you’re in the middle of an action-packed playthrough so you can feel every moment on your way to victory.
Since these aren’t included out of the box, without them the only form of interaction you’ll get is hand and eye tracking.
More serious than the cost of the controllers, however, is the price of Samsung’s Galaxy XR Travel Case, which Cost one more $250This case, according to Samsung’s own description, is literally just a carrying case for the $1,800 headset.
The Galaxy XR Travel Case keeps your device and its in-box items in one place so they’re ready when you need to use them. Thanks to the optimal internal structure, each part fits into the right place for simple and convenient storage.
Apple doesn’t even include a free case with the Vision Pro, but still Apple’s case is $50 less than Samsung’s,
The extra $500 charge for accessories on top of the Galaxy XR’s already expensive $1,800 price tag is a tough bummer, but Samsung is softening the blow somewhat with a 30% discount on any accessory when you buy the headset. If you reserve ahead of time, these can also be used with Samsung’s $100 credit.
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