Samsung and Google Unveil XR Plans at Galaxy Unpacked Event
Samsung and Google Unveils New XR Partnership Products
At the Samsung Galaxy Unpacked event in Paris, Samsung revealed new gadgets such as the Galaxy Z Flip 6, Galaxy Watch Ultra, and Galaxy Ring. Additionally, Google discussed Gemini AI and reaffirmed its plans for an XR platform, covering VR, AR, and MR technologies. TM Roh, Samsung's President and Head of the Mobile Experience (MX) business, announced that details of Samsung and Google's XR partnership would be disclosed this year.
Amid the ongoing year, more information is expected to surface at the Samsung Developer's Conference on October 3. The XR-focused device is anticipated to compete with the Xreal Air 2 Ultras, which necessitate a smartphone for operation.
Notably, Google rescheduled its Pixel phone launch event to August, potentially to avoid overshadowing its forthcoming XR tech reveal in October. The XR platform is set to rival VisionOS and Meta's HorizonOS, which Meta recently revealed would be compatible with non-Meta Quest headsets from Asus, Lenovo, and Xbox.
Google and Samsung must present innovative hardware and software to justify the anticipation surrounding their XR platform, which has been mounting since its initial tease in February 2023.
Key Takeaways
- Samsung and Google plan to unveil their XR partnership products this year.
- Expected launch likely at Samsung Developer’s Conference on October 3, 2024.
- Potential XR devices include a Samsung XR headset or smart glasses.
- Google's XR platform aims to compete with Meta's Horizon OS and Apple's VisionOS.
- Google moved Pixel 9 launch to August, possibly to avoid overlap with XR tech reveal.
Analysis
The collaboration between Samsung and Google in the XR space could have significant implications for the tech industry, impacting competitors like Apple and Meta. The introduction of Samsung's new gadgets and Google's XR platform signifies a bid to dominate the VR/AR markets, posing a challenge to established players. The shift in timing of Google's Pixel launch suggests strategic maneuvering to maximize the impact of the XR platform. In the short term, attention is directed towards the Samsung Developer's Conference in October. In the long term, successful integration of XR technology with Samsung's devices could redefine consumer expectations and market dynamics.
Did You Know?
- Galaxy Z Flip 6:
- The latest iteration of Samsung's foldable smartphone features advancements in durability, display technology, and user experience. It likely incorporates new hinge technology and improved flexible screen materials.
- XR Platform (VR, AR, MR):
- Google's XR platform integrates Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (MR) to provide a seamless and immersive user experience across various digital and real-world environments.
- Meta's Horizon OS:
- Designed for virtual and augmented reality experiences, Meta's Horizon OS plays a crucial role in the XR market, enabling immersive applications and social interactions in virtual spaces beyond Meta Quest headsets.