The announcement of Android XR marks a significant entry into the spatial computing arena, closely resembling Apple’s visionOS. Google’s upcoming headset from Samsung, Project Moohan, aims to provide a more affordable alternative to the Vision Pro. Android XR integrates features like eye-tracking and hand gestures, while also promoting immersive experiences. This collaboration between Google and Apple suggests a shared future for spatial computing, with the potential for popular apps to bridge both ecosystems, challenging Meta’s dominance in the VR space.
The Exciting Arrival of Android XR
In Cupertino, within the iconic Apple Park, the unexpected announcement of Android XR on December 12 brought a wave of relief. Apple had been navigating the high-end spatial computing market solo since the launch of their Vision Pro in February 2024, priced at €3,999. The prolonged wait for competitors must have started to feel cumbersome for the tech giant. Known for setting trends, the absence of rivals could imply a misstep in their strategy, despite their CEO asserting that it targets “early adopters.”
Android XR: A New Contender in Spatial Computing
With only a few distinguishing features, Android XR closely mirrors the visionOS interface, showcasing the same navigation, gestures, and application types. Google is gearing up to provide its operating system to headset manufacturers worldwide, effectively endorsing Apple’s strategic direction. Much like the era following the 2007 iPhone launch, Android could become instrumental in popularizing these innovative technologies, especially by attracting a plethora of developers.
Looking ahead to 2025, Samsung plans to unveil Project Moohan, the inaugural headset utilizing Android XR. This device, which resembles a Korean iteration of the Vision Pro, is expected to be more affordable than Apple’s offering while addressing some of its shortcomings. It feels reminiscent of the smartphone wars, with competitors driving each other to new heights.
In its promotional video for Android XR, humorously titled “A Vision for Android XR,” Google echoes the sentiments of its Californian counterpart. The tech behemoth claims that Android XR is more than just another operating system; it represents the future of computing. Google acknowledges that it revamped its project following the launch of Apple’s headset, believing that the technology is now mature enough to redefine computing.
On paper, Android XR appears to be Google’s take on visionOS. Users will notice circular icons at the center of the screen, resizable windows activated by gazing at corners, and the freedom to position applications throughout space. Interaction is facilitated through eye movements and hand gestures, with controllers expected to be rolled out by Samsung. The design language of Android XR aligns closely with visionOS, featuring transparency that enhances both virtual reality (like a beach setting) and mixed reality (interacting with the real world through cameras).
In its presentation, Google manages to articulate the concept of headsets like the Vision Pro in a way that Apple has yet to achieve. The brand portrays them as “episodic” devices, intended for specific and temporary uses, such as catching a football match.
Google’s vision for Android XR extends into the future, aspiring to create a more discreet glasses ecosystem in the coming years. Apple may pursue a similar path, but cannot openly declare it.
With Android XR, Google also endorses several ideas initially proposed by Apple, including the ability to relive memories in 3D, watch films in an immersive setting, or project a computer screen into one’s line of sight. The company pushes the envelope further with Gemini, a feature that leverages artificial intelligence to analyze elements within a user’s view. Anticipated advancements are also on the horizon with visionOS 3 and Apple Intelligence in June 2025.
By closely mirroring visionOS, Google sends a powerful message to critics of the Vision Pro. Apple’s headset, while costly, is not a miscalculation, and in a few years, as brands roll out headsets and popular applications adapt to augmented reality, these devices may reach mainstream adoption. Whether they evolve into personal televisions, immersive computer displays, or advanced gaming consoles, one thing is clear: spatial computing is on its way.
Interestingly, the collaboration between Google and Apple suggests that they are not direct rivals. With Android XR, Google lends credibility to spatial computing, potentially sparking greater interest among consumers. Apple is likely to maintain its dominance in the high-end market, as it rarely relinquishes its top position. The evolution of Android has undoubtedly accelerated the iPhone’s growth.
Another promising outcome of the Android XR launch is the possibility of Google apps making their way to visionOS, including YouTube, Google Maps (featuring immersive Street View!), and Google Photos. Google previously claimed to have no interest in this sector, but it seems they were merely safeguarding their interests. Android XR may also inspire major developers like Netflix and video game publishers to join the fray.
Google’s primary competitor is Meta. With its Quest headsets, born from the acquisition of Oculus, Facebook’s parent company aspires to become “the Android of virtual reality.” Recently, it introduced Horizon OS to third-party manufacturers, aiming to cultivate its ecosystem.
In the face of Google’s software prowess, which dominates numerous markets with Android, Meta finds itself in a precarious position. While Mark Zuckerberg’s company has a solid head start, it must contend with a formidable rival intent on promoting its operating system. Meta gained credibility when Apple entered the VR market, but now faces new threats with Google’s emergence. Moreover, developing on Android XR with Unity is free, which will undoubtedly bolster the growth of the OS’s future Play Store.