It seems like everything is coming together for the future of immersive experiences based on Android XR. Google and Samsung have been working for a long time on both the hardware and software that will lead the way. Samsung has now confirmed the release of an XR device for 2025, while also paving the way for a cheaper foldable phone.
Yesterday, a report revealed that Google integrated the “XR headsets” category into the Play Store for app installation. This clearly indicated that a major announcement regarding extended reality experiences on Android was imminent. Just a day later, Samsung confirmed the suspicions.
A Samsung’s “XR (eXtended Reality) device” confirmed for 2025
In its latest Q3 2024 earnings report, Samsung teased some of the most important developments they are working on for next year. The South Korean giant mentioned that an “XR (eXtended Reality) device” will arrive in 2025. Previous leaks claimed that the product was planned for 2024. However, it seems that there was a change of plans, and we will have to wait a few more months.
There is not much information available about the tech specs of Samsung’s XR device. Currently, it is only certain that it will use a Snapdragon chip for VR products and run a version of Android adapted to immersive experiences based on headsets. A hardware platform for developers was expected to be available in October. However, since that did not happen, there is still a great deal of secrecy surrounding it.
The XR device could be smart glasses
Other recent leaks suggest a change in the product’s development approach. Instead of releasing an XR headset, Samsung and Google could launch XR glasses. This form factor seems quite convenient to have permanent access to the power of Gemini. However, issues such as the product’s potentially limited battery life raise concerns.
Samsung also mentioned the Galaxy S25 series, but nothing groundbreaking. The company confirmed that the devices will arrive “in the first half of next year,” without giving further details. The leaks claim that the launch will happen in January, in line with the timing of previous events.
Cheaper foldable smartphone not yet ruled out
Lastly, in addition to confirming the XR device and the S25 lineup, Samsung appears to be considering developing a cheaper foldable smartphone. Tipster @Jukanlosreve claimed that the company is looking for “ways to lower entry barriers so that more customers can actually experience foldable products.” The brand could also be “preparing new form factors,” according to the source. Interestingly, Samsung recently denied the possibility of launching a cheaper Z Fold.
