Samsung’s Android XR Headset to Feature Native Motion Controllers and PC VR Streaming Support

Samsung has recently unveiled its plans for a new Android XR headset, called ‘Project Moohan,’ leaving the gaming community eagerly waiting for more insights. While details remain sparse, Samsung has tantalized tech enthusiasts and developers with two major revelations that are sure to generate excitement among VR aficionados.

Expected to launch next year, Project Moohan is set to be the pioneering headset equipped with Android XR. During a hands-on session, we explored the headset’s capabilities, specifically observing its hand-tracking and eye-tracking features. But there’s more – the buzzworthy announcement that should catch everyone’s attention is Samsung’s development of first-party motion controllers. These controllers are designed to mesh seamlessly with Android XR.

This development is especially crucial because it opens the door for countless existing VR applications that depend on motion controllers to transition to Android XR without needing extensive redesigns. This is in stark contrast to Apple’s Vision Pro, which doesn’t support motion controllers. As a result, most popular VR content would face significant hurdles adapting to Apple’s XR platform.

Regarding the Project Moohan controllers themselves, details are still under wraps. Samsung has indicated that they will be ready to coincide with the headset’s official release in 2025. However, it’s yet to be determined if these controllers will be bundled with every headset or if they will be marketed separately as optional accessories.

In a move that will delight fans of expansive VR worlds, both Samsung and Google have confirmed that Android XR will facilitate PC VR streaming for Project Moohan, as well as future headsets. This feature means users can opt to stream PC VR content directly from their gaming PCs to their headsets. Such functionality broadens access to the extensive library of VR content available via SteamVR, known for superior graphics and enhanced modding options.

Though this is a promising development, specifics on how it will be executed are still scant. The term “support” is ambiguous here; it remains to be seen if Android XR will have an inherent PC VR streaming solution, akin to the Quest, or if Google intends to keep third-party streaming apps in the mix.

It seems the latter might be more likely, especially with the confirmation that Virtual Desktop, a prominent third-party PC VR streaming app, is under development for Android XR.

For those keen to stay in the loop about Android XR’s capabilities and features, be sure to explore the initial announcement article and dive into our comprehensive hands-on experience with Samsung’s anticipated headset.