Hold onto your seats, because the Samsung Galaxy XR is about to get a major upgrade—and it’s borrowing one of the Apple Vision Pro’s most coveted features. But here’s where it gets controversial: Is Samsung’s move enough to challenge Apple’s dominance, or is it just playing catch-up? Let’s dive in.
Google has just unveiled three exciting new upgrades for the Samsung Galaxy XR headset, and they’re not just minor tweaks. Starting today, users can enjoy a virtual PC display, create lifelike digital avatars for video calls, and transform their travel experience with a first-class cinema mode—all while sitting in economy. These additions bring the Galaxy XR closer to matching the Apple Vision Pro’s most user-friendly features. And this is the part most people miss: With the Galaxy XR priced at $1,799 compared to the Vision Pro’s $3,500, Samsung’s offering suddenly looks like a steal.
But is this all part of a bigger strategy? Both Apple and Google are reportedly doubling down on smart glasses, with Samsung’s AI glasses and Project Aura in the pipeline. The industry’s ultimate goal? Packing a fully immersive XR experience into a sleek pair of glasses. While that future is still on the horizon, these new Galaxy XR features are a significant step forward. Having tested them firsthand, I’m here to break down the details.
1. PC Connect: Your Desktop, Reimagined
One of the Apple Vision Pro’s standout features is its ability to project a virtual Mac display. Now, Galaxy XR users can do the same with PC Connect. By linking your Windows PC to the headset, you can project your desktop into a virtual window right in front of you. Even better, you can use this feature alongside native Galaxy XR apps. Imagine watching a YouTube tutorial on a tricky Windows 11 feature while simultaneously applying it on your PC—it’s a game-changer. Plus, you can ask Gemini questions about your screen content and receive visual guides in real time.
While specifics are still scarce, it’s likely that PC Connect will leverage Windows 11’s Mixed Reality Link, similar to what I tested on the Meta Quest 3. If so, ultra-wide support could be in the cards, though Google hasn’t confirmed this yet. Fingers crossed!
2. Likeness: Your Digital Doppelgänger
Get ready for a Black Mirror-esque experience: Galaxy XR is introducing lifelike avatars called Likeness. Using your Android phone to scan your face, you can create a virtual avatar that mirrors your facial expressions and hand gestures in real-time during video calls and Google Meets. Is it a bit uncanny? Absolutely. When my fiancée FaceTimed me using her Vision Pro, I was definitely taken aback. But it’s easy to see why companies are pushing this—they want users to spend more time in their headsets.
3. Travel Mode: Economy Class, Upgraded
Say goodbye to cramped flights and hello to a personal cinema or workspace with Galaxy XR’s new Travel Mode. Google promises a stable view even when you’re in motion, turning your economy seat into a premium experience. This is exactly why I love Travel Mode on my Quest 3—it’s a lifesaver for long flights. While there’s no word yet on how this works, my guess is that some tracking features are disabled to provide a more fixed, immersive view.
But here’s the catch: The Meta Quest 3 already offers many of these features—at a price point over $1,000 lower than the Galaxy XR. Sure, the Quest 3 may lag in display quality, performance, and tracking accuracy, but does that justify the price difference? That’s the question I grappled with when comparing the Galaxy XR, Vision Pro, and Quest 3. While Samsung’s updates are impressive, they’re up against fierce competition that’s hard to ignore.
Does VR Still Matter?
This leads to a bigger question: Outside of gaming, do VR headsets like the Galaxy XR truly matter to the average consumer? The answer is complicated. I use my Quest 3 almost daily and love it, but I can’t shake the feeling that these headsets are just beta tests for the upcoming smart glasses revolution. Reports show that while VR headset shipments dropped 14% in the first half of 2025, AR glasses sales surged by 50% in the same period. Google, Meta, and Apple are all laser-focused on smart glasses—the device people actually want.
Controversial Take: Are Headsets Just a Stopgap?
Here’s a thought to ponder: Are VR headsets like the Galaxy XR merely a stepping stone to the smart glasses future? While they offer incredible experiences, their long-term relevance is uncertain. What do you think? Are headsets here to stay, or are they just a prelude to the main event? Let’s debate in the comments!
Stay ahead of the curve by following Tom's Guide on Google News and adding us as a preferred source for the latest updates, reviews, and insights. And if you’re curious about more XR innovations, check out our deep dives into Meta’s Horizon TV hub, the Steam Frame, and the Even Realities G2 smart glasses.
