Samsung Project Moohan Android XR Hands-On

Samsung Project Moohan: A Glimpse into Android XR’s Future

Samsung’s Project Moohan made its debut at Google I/O 2025, introducing the world to the first Android XR headset. This innovative device directly competes with Apple’s Vision Pro, offering a unique blend of immersive technology and user-friendly design. The headset was showcased during the event, providing attendees with a hands-on experience that highlighted its potential.

The Project Moohan features a sleek metallic gray frame with a large surface area and a rear wheel for adjusting tightness. Its design is reminiscent of the Apple Vision Pro, including a separate battery connected via cable. While the headset’s build quality is impressive, its long-term comfort remains to be tested, as demo sessions were limited to under 30 minutes.

One of the standout features of the Project Moohan is its focus on content immersion. Unlike Google’s minimalist approach with its connected glasses, Samsung prioritizes a rich, engaging experience. The headset’s controls are intuitive, with pinching gestures similar to those used in visionOS. Navigation is seamless, and finding the optimal arm position for smooth interactions is crucial for the best user experience.

Immersive Applications and 3D Capabilities

The Project Moohan’s immersive potential was evident in the demoed applications. YouTube videos, for example, appear on a virtual screen with high image quality. Users can adjust the display size by pinching the video corner, and tapping an icon expands the video, removing interface elements to enhance immersion. This feature transforms traditional 2D content into a more engaging experience.

YouTube’s 3D mode, achieved through AI conversion of 2D sources, adds depth to videos. An aerial view of a forest, for instance, feels almost tangible, showcasing the potential of this technology. Content creators may soon have access to tools that enable them to produce immersive 3D content, further enhancing the viewing experience for users.

Google Photos also benefits from the Project Moohan’s capabilities. Users can view photos and videos in large format, navigating through images with pinching gestures. The “Go immersive” button activates AI-driven 3D processing, adding depth to static images. This feature makes landscapes more vivid and people more lifelike, creating a more engaging way to relive memories.

Google Maps and Gemini Integration

Google Maps was demonstrated on the Project Moohan, showcasing the integration of Google’s AI, Gemini. Accessible via a physical button, Gemini provides real-time assistance and analysis. During the demo, journalists explored 3D maps of locations like the Gorges du Verdon and the Eiffel Tower, with Gemini offering contextual information about the virtual environment.

The experience was further enhanced by Gemini Live, which runs in the background and suggests actions based on the user’s view. For example, when viewing a high point, Gemini suggested visiting it, transporting the user to a 3D view of the location. This seamless integration of AI and virtual reality creates a more interactive and informative user experience.

Future Prospects and Challenges

While the Project Moohan shows great technological promise, its commercial success remains uncertain. The Apple Vision Pro’s limited public appeal raises questions about the market demand for high-end virtual reality headsets. Samsung has not yet disclosed the technical specifications or pricing for the Project Moohan, but estimates place it between 2500 and 3000 euros.

Despite these challenges, the Project Moohan represents a significant step forward for Android XR. Its immersive features, intuitive controls, and AI integration offer a glimpse into the future of virtual reality. As the technology continues to evolve, it has the potential to transform how we interact with digital content, making experiences more engaging and lifelike.

Omar Belkaab covered Google I/O 2025 in Mountain View as part of a Google-organized press trip.