Samsung Galaxy XR Unveils 3 Major Upgrades — Apple Vision Pro Worried

New Android XR Upgrades for Samsung Galaxy XR

Google has rolled out a series of exciting new features for the Samsung Galaxy XR headset, enhancing its capabilities and bringing it closer to parity with Apple’s Vision Pro. These updates include a virtual display for your PC, a digital likeness for video calls, and a travel mode that transforms your economy class experience into a first-class cinema.

The Galaxy XR is now offering features that are essential for many users, and when compared to the Apple Vision Pro, which costs $3,500, the Galaxy XR at $1,799 looks like a more attractive option. This isn’t just by chance; both Google and Apple are investing heavily in smart glasses, as seen with Samsung’s AI glasses and Project Aura. The industry is clearly moving towards creating an all-immersive XR experience in a compact form factor.

While this transition may take time, these three new features are already enriching the user experience on the Galaxy XR. Here's a closer look at what's coming:

1. PC Connect

One of the most popular features of the Apple Vision Pro is the ability to project a virtual display from your Mac. Now, the Galaxy XR offers a similar experience through PC Connect. This feature allows you to link your Windows PC to the headset and project your desktop in a window in front of you. You can even use it side-by-side with other native apps on the Galaxy XR, making it possible to have a YouTube tutorial playing while working on your Windows PC.

You can also ask Gemini questions about the content you see on your Windows PC virtual display and receive visual guides. While details on how this will work are still limited, it’s likely that this will use Windows 11 Mixed Reality Link, similar to what I experienced on my Meta Quest 3.

2. Create Your Likeness

Another notable addition is the "Likeness" feature, which creates a lifelike avatar using your Android phone to scan your face. This virtual avatar can appear in video calls and Google Meets, matching your facial expressions and hand gestures in real-time.

This feature might feel a bit eerie, but it makes sense from a company perspective — aiming to increase the time people spend wearing their headsets. When my fiancée FaceTimed me on her Apple Vision Pro, I was taken aback, but I understand the intent behind it.

3. Travel Mode

Finally, the Galaxy XR is getting a proper Travel Mode. Google promises a view that stays stable even when you're in motion, turning a cramped flight into a personal cinema or immersive workspace.

This feature is particularly appealing for frequent travelers who want to enjoy a more comfortable and immersive experience during flights. While specifics on how it works are not yet clear, it’s likely that some tracking features are disabled to provide a more fixed picture.

How Does the Galaxy XR Compare to the Meta Quest 3?

Despite these impressive upgrades, there is one significant issue: the Meta Quest 3 already offers similar features at a much lower price point. While there are differences in display quality, performance, and software, the cost difference makes it hard to justify the higher price of the Galaxy XR.

The Future of VR and Smart Glasses

With reports showing that VR headset shipments fell by 14% year-over-year in the first half of 2025, while AR glasses grew by 50%, it raises the question: does VR still matter? While headsets like the Galaxy XR offer great experiences, they seem to be more like beta tests for the upcoming smart glasses revolution.

Conclusion

The Galaxy XR is getting some much-needed updates that enhance its functionality and appeal. However, the competition remains fierce, especially with the Meta Quest 3 offering similar features at a lower cost. As the industry continues to shift towards smart glasses, the future of VR headsets remains uncertain. For now, the Galaxy XR is a compelling option, but its long-term success will depend on how well it can differentiate itself in a rapidly evolving market.