**A New VR Headset from Samsung is Coming, but Will It Be Able to Compete?**
Virtual reality (VR) fans have plenty to anticipate as Samsung gears up to introduce its eagerly awaited mixed reality headset, provisionally named “Project Moohan.” Unveiled alongside Android XR, a fresh iteration of Android designed for extended reality (XR) devices, Samsung’s venture into the VR realm has generated buzz and curiosity. Yet, with Meta’s Quest 3 already commanding the market and Apple’s Vision Pro raising the standard for high-end headsets, the question persists: Will Samsung’s Project Moohan genuinely be able to compete?
### **Samsung Project Moohan: A Preview of What’s Ahead**
Samsung’s Project Moohan was revealed at the Samsung Unpacked 2025 event, coinciding with the Galaxy S25. Although the device is still several months from its official debut, initial information points to its potential as a transformative player in the XR arena. The headset is said to incorporate state-of-the-art hardware, including micro-OLED displays boasting up to 3,000 DPI resolution, sophisticated cameras, and a stylish, ergonomic design with magnetically detachable light blockers.
One of the key features of Project Moohan is its compatibility with Android XR, promising a smooth integration of virtual and real-world experiences. The operating system is expected to offer Google Play Store access, providing users with a rich library of 2D applications upon release. Furthermore, the synergy with Google Gemini, an AI-powered assistant, could revolutionize user interaction within virtual settings.
### **Meta Quest 3: The Present Standard**
Before delving further into the capabilities of Project Moohan, it’s crucial to grasp the competitive landscape. Meta’s Quest 3 currently stands as the leading standalone VR headset, delivering an impressive combination of affordability, performance, and adaptability. At a price of $499, the Quest 3 is powered by a Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 processor, features pancake lenses, and boasts a comprehensive library of games and applications. It also enables wireless PC connectivity, enhancing its functionality for both gaming and productivity tasks.
The modular design of the Quest 3 empowers users to personalize their experience with various third-party accessories, including upgraded head straps and face pads. Nonetheless, its standard configuration, which incorporates a fabric strap and plastic construction, focuses more on cost savings than on luxury comfort.
### **How Does Project Moohan Stack Up?**
#### **Design and Comfort**
Samsung seems to aim for a more upscale aesthetic and comfort level with Project Moohan. In contrast to the Quest 3, which distributes weight across the face and head, Moohan’s design seeks to eliminate facial pressure completely. Its sturdy side straps, adjustable rear padding, and magnetically removable light blockers promise a more pleasant experience, particularly for prolonged usage.
#### **Display and Visuals**
The anticipated micro-OLED displays of Project Moohan with a 3,000 DPI resolution could significantly surpass the Quest 3’s LCD screens, which offer a 1,218 DPI resolution. This enhanced resolution, paired with superior eye-tracking capabilities, enables automatic interpupillary distance (IPD) adjustment and foveated rendering. Such features ensure optimal visual clarity and efficiency by directing processing power to the user’s direct line of sight.
Conversely, the Quest 3 depends on manual IPD adjustments and fixed foveated rendering, which, although effective, lack the precision offered by eye-tracking technology.
#### **Performance and Hardware**
Both headsets leverage Qualcomm Snapdragon processors, but Project Moohan will utilize the newer XR2+ Gen 2 chipset. This enhancement is expected to yield superior performance, higher-resolution cameras, and more advanced features. However, specifics regarding Moohan’s RAM, storage, and refresh rate have yet to be disclosed.
#### **Software and Ecosystem**
The operating systems that power these headsets reveal a significant difference in their methodologies. Meta’s Horizon OS, based on Android, delivers a curated experience centered on Meta’s ecosystem, encompassing apps like WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram. While it performs admirably as a gaming console, its application library is notably limited compared to the promise of Android XR.
In contrast, Android XR will feature Google Play Store support, ensuring Project Moohan access to a wider selection of applications upon launch. Moreover, Android XR’s integration with Google Gemini could bring about innovative AI-driven engagements, including real-time assistance and improved multitasking.
#### **Controllers and Hand Tracking**
While the Quest 3 comes equipped with motion controllers and supports hand tracking, Samsung has not confirmed whether Project Moohan will come with controllers or if they will be sold separately. Still, both headsets are anticipated to support hand tracking, a capability that is becoming increasingly vital for immersive experiences.
### **Price and Availability**
One of the major uncertainties surrounding Project Moohan is its pricing. While the Quest 3 delivers remarkable value at $499, speculations suggest that Samsung’s headset might fall around $999. This elevated price may reflect its premium features and hardware, yet it could also restrict its appeal to budget-conscious buyers.
### **Can Samsung Stand Up to the Competition?**
Samsung
