Samsung Project Moohan Android XR Hands-On
Source: frandroid.com
The Samsung Project Moohan was showcased at Google I/O 2025, offering a brief hands-on experience. This Samsung headset is the first to utilize Android XR, directly competing with the Apple Vision Pro. Scheduled for release later this year, Samsung provided demos during the Google event, allowing for initial impressions.
The headset features a large surface with a metallic gray frame, a rear wheel for tightening, and a separate battery connected via cable, bearing a resemblance to the Apple Vision Pro. Having used the Project Moohan for under 30 minutes, long-term comfort is unknown. However, the headset's build quality is refined, and it's easy to put on.
Android XR on Google's connected glasses is minimalist, emphasizing oral interactions with Gemini. In contrast, the Project Moohan prioritizes content immersion. Familiarizing with the controls was straightforward; the pinching action is similar to visionOS. The navigation is intuitive, akin to Apple's Vision Pro. Determining the correct arm distance was key for smooth interactions, favoring a bent arm position.
The Project Moohan offers immersion potential, evident in the demoed applications. Upon launching YouTube, videos initially appear on a virtual screen. While not fully immersive, the image quality is high. Samsung has not disclosed the product's technical specifications. The display size can be adjusted by pinching the video corner. Interface elements are initially visible.
Tapping an icon enhances immersion by expanding the video and removing interface elements. YouTube sections appear around the frame. Selecting another video showcased landscapes with 3D elements, achieved via AI conversion of 2D sources. An aerial view of a forest provided a near-tangible experience. This 3D mode holds significant potential, with YouTube likely to promote this immersive treatment for Android XR. Users may have the option to enable this feature, and content creators may gain related functions.
Google Photos allows viewing photos and videos in large format. Pinching gestures navigate images. The "Go immersive" button activates the AI's 3D processing, creating impressive depth in static images. Grand Canyon photos become more striking, fireworks more grandiose, and people more realistic.
Google Maps via Gemini was also demonstrated. Google's AI is integrated into Android XR, accessible via a physical button. The session involved screen sharing with the AI assistant, utilizing Project Astra's analysis capabilities. Requesting directions to the Gorges du Verdon on Google Maps required refinement. The 3D map offered a detailed view of the location, highlighting the cliffs' height. Other journalists explored landmarks like the Eiffel Tower. Gemini Live ran in the background, providing information about the virtual location. For example, when viewing a high point, the AI suggested visiting it, transporting the user to the belvedere de la Dent d’Aire in 3D. The experience transitioned to Street View. Gemini's English version was more natural than the French version.
The Project Moohan is well-built, and its software, while needing refinement, shows technological potential. However, its commercial success is uncertain, given the Apple Vision Pro's limited public appeal. The price point remains a key factor, with estimates placing it between 2500 and 3000 euros. Omar Belkaab covered Google I/O 2025 in Mountain View as part of a Google-organized press trip.