Galaxy XR Launches at Half the Price of Vision Pro — But with a Big Catch

Samsung has officially launched the Galaxy XR, its first mixed-reality headset built on the Android XR platform. After years of anticipation, fans can finally order the device. Priced at $1,799, the headset significantly undercuts the Apple Vision Pro, which starts at $3,499. However, there’s a major catch — availability is extremely limited, with the Galaxy XR launching only in two markets: the USA and South Korea.

It’s unclear if Samsung plans a broader Galaxy XR launch later

The Galaxy XR offers a more accessible entry into the world of spatial computing. Unfortunately, you must live in the said two countries to buy it, unless you are willing to splurge more to import the device without official support. Samsung has not yet announced any release plans for other regions, leaving global fans waiting for their turn. In fact, we don’t even know if the Galaxy XR will ever come to more markets.

This limited launch may disappoint many, especially considering the immense anticipation surrounding Samsung’s entry into extended reality. Meanwhile, Apple’s Vision Pro is already available in over a dozen markets, giving Apple a clear head start in global reach. Given that the Galaxy XR costs nearly half as much as the Vision Pro, a broader rollout could have helped Samsung capture significant early momentum in the mixed-reality space.

Developed in partnership with Google and Qualcomm, the Galaxy XR focuses on delivering an intelligent, immersive experience rather than flashy external features. Unlike the Vision Pro, Samsung’s headset doesn’t have a forward-facing display that projects the wearer’s eyes. Instead, the focus is on seamless gesture controls, AI-assisted interaction through Gemini, and precision tracking for natural, intuitive navigation.

The Galaxy XR supports both hand tracking and voice control, and can also be paired with physical motion controllers. The controllers are sold separately for $250, but you can get them for less when bundled with the headset. For those who pre-registered, Samsung is offering a $100 discount on the headset, bringing the price down to $1,699. Early adopters also receive $1,000 worth of subscription perks, including Google AI Pro, YouTube Premium, and Google Play Pass. You can buy the Galaxy XR here.