Samsung Finally Brings SmartThings to Galaxy XR

It’s been quite a while since Samsung launched the Galaxy XR, which so far is only available in the US and Korea. There are reports that Samsung will gradually roll out the XR headset to more markets, and all we can do is wait. Now, Samsung’s started rolling out an important addition to the Galaxy XR.

Galaxy XR now supports SmartThings for smart home control

First reported by SamMobile, Samsung is now rolling out a dedicated SmartThings app for the Galaxy XR. It finally brings the smart home platform to the headset, which was long overdue. SmartThings was one of the most obvious gaps, since users couldn’t even run the regular mobile app inside the XR environment. Thankfully, it’s here now.

Credits: SamMobile

The new SmartThings app is built specifically for extended reality, with a layout that’s easier to use in a floating interface. It lets users control compatible devices, switch between rooms, and manage basic settings without taking off the headset.

In terms of core functionality, it does what you’d expect and makes the Galaxy XR feel more connected to Samsung’s wider ecosystem instead of operating as a mostly standalone device. But as the outlet notes, this XR version of SmartThings is still missing some features found on phones and Samsung TVs. Most notably, Map View isn’t available, which is disappointing.

Still, credit where it’s due, it’s at least the start of something. And maybe we’ll see a more refined version of the SmartThings app for the Galaxy XR roll out in the coming weeks. Map View being unavailable is a bigger issue, since that’s one feature these XR headsets can really take advantage of.

If you’re planning to pick up the Galaxy XR, you might want to know that Free Explorer Pack offer (worth $1,140) is still available. So while the $1,799.99 price hasn’t moved an inch, the freebies might make up for it. And if you wear prescription lenses, you’ll need to order them separately.