As excitement builds for the Galaxy Unpacked 2025 event scheduled for Wednesday, the spotlight is firmly on Samsung’s rumored first foray into the extended reality (XR) headset arena. The headset, ominously dubbed ‘Project Moohan,’ which represents the concept of infinity in Korean, attempts to carve a niche in a market that has recently witnessed its fair share of turbulence. The company first unveiled Project Moohan back in December 2024, signaling its intent to compete head-to-head with industry stalwarts like the Apple Vision Pro.
While detailed specifications remain under wraps, reports suggest that Samsung is gearing up to reveal tantalizing features, including advanced multimodal input and cutting-edge display technologies. One of the headset’s standout capabilities is likely to include passthrough technology—a feature that essentially allows users to see their physical environment while immersed in a virtual one. This innovative approach aligns with trends set by current market leaders, thereby raising expectations around Project Moohan. Industry insiders, particularly from South Korean publication Business Korea, have hinted that attendees can expect to see either prototypes of the headset or engaging teaser videos during the event.
Furthermore, the headset will be Samsung’s inaugural device to operate on Android XR, a novel operating system rollout crafted in collaboration with Google and Qualcomm. Given the significance of this development, it opens up a wealth of possibilities, making it crucial for Project Moohan to seamlessly integrate with numerous applications and experiences across a variety of virtual environments.
Though Samsung previously dabbled in the virtual reality domain with the release of the Gear VR in 2015, Project Moohan reflects a more strategic approach to wearable technology. The broader XR market is currently navigating a challenging landscape characterized by fluctuating demand. According to Counterpoint Research’s findings, VR headset shipments experienced a notable 4% decline year-over-year, while AR smart glasses shipments plummeted over 30%. This trend raises probing questions about market viability, especially for new entrants like Samsung.
However, the potential upswing in the XR sector cannot be overlooked. With predictions of a 2% growth in the market landscape, Samsung’s timing in launching its headset raises eyebrows. Positioning itself amid this technical renaissance presents both challenges and opportunities, allowing the company to leverage its technological prowess to reclaim market share.
As Samsung gears up for the Galaxy Unpacked event, the potential for Project Moohan to influence the XR marketplace is palpable. If the headset delivers on its promises of innovation and user experience, it could set a new benchmark for competitors. The inclusion of Google’s Gemini AI assistant and apps tailored for expansive virtual displays could give it a competitive edge. Therefore, all eyes will be on Samsung as it ventures into this exciting yet uncertain territory, illustrating its ambition to redefine realities—both virtual and augmented.