At Google I/O 2025 in Mountain View, I had the incredible opportunity to experience two of the most exciting new devices running on Google’s fresh Android XR platform. Android XR is a brand-new operating system designed specifically for headsets, including both AR glasses and VR headsets. These devices represent Google’s bold step forward into the XR (extended reality) space, combining augmented and virtual reality with the power of Android.
Table of Contents
- 🕶️ Exploring the Prototype Android XR AR Glasses
- 🎮 Diving into Samsung’s Project Muhan VR Headset
- ⏳ When Will Android XR Devices Be Available?
- âť“ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Final Thoughts
🕶️ Exploring the Prototype Android XR AR Glasses
The first device I tried was a prototype pair of AR glasses developed through a collaboration between Google, Samsung, and Qualcomm. Google provides the Android XR operating system, Samsung is crafting the physical device, and Qualcomm supplies the silicon powering the experience.
These glasses are still in prototype form, so their final retail design and price remain unknown. However, what I experienced gave me a clear glimpse of what the future holds. The visuals were strikingly impressive — sharp, intuitive, and seamlessly integrated into the real world.
One particularly cool feature was the turn-by-turn navigation displayed right in the glasses. Initially, I thought looking down to see directions would be awkward. But wearing the glasses, I realized you only need to tilt your head slightly downward to catch the navigation prompts, much like glancing at your phone but without the need to pull it out.
It’s important to note these glasses don’t function independently — they require a connection to your smartphone. Your phone needs to stay on your person to power the glasses’ capabilities. While this might deter some who imagined standalone AR glasses, it’s not a deal-breaker and aligns with the current tech landscape.
With the glasses connected to your phone, you gain full access to Google’s AI assistant, Gemini. By tapping the side of the glasses’ stem, you can interact with Gemini, who can analyze whatever you’re looking at. For example, I asked Gemini about paintings in a demo — who painted them, the style, and more — receiving both visual text responses and voice feedback directly through speakers embedded in the glasses’ stems (no earbuds needed!).
This hands-free, intuitive approach makes me imagine walking through a museum, spontaneously querying information about artwork or exhibits, and instantly receiving detailed insights. It’s a natural blend of the physical and digital worlds.
Though we don’t know the official product name, release date, or price, Google’s clear commitment to this concept is exciting. This feels like a spiritual successor to the original Google Glass, but with much more advanced technology and practical use cases. I expect we might see these or similar products on the market within the next year, though pricing will likely be premium given the cutting-edge features.
🎮 Diving into Samsung’s Project Muhan VR Headset
Next up was Samsung’s Project Muhan, a VR headset also running Android XR. If you’re familiar with devices like the Meta Quest, Project Muhan operates similarly but with some standout features.
One of the most exciting innovations is complete gesture control. You don’t need physical controllers to interact with the VR environment — instead, you can use natural pinches, swipes, and taps in the air, much like the Apple Vision Pro’s approach. However, I believe Project Muhan could be far more popular, thanks to a likely lower price point and compatibility with a wide range of controllers.
Google confirmed that Project Muhan will support various VR controllers, including popular gamepads like Xbox and DualSense controllers. This flexibility means you can choose your preferred input method, whether it’s traditional controllers or gesture controls.
The headset itself was incredibly comfortable. Unlike many VR headsets that feel front-heavy and tiring to wear, Project Muhan’s weight was evenly distributed, making it feel like something I could wear for an hour or more without discomfort.
The visual quality blew me away — full color, crystal clear, and with latency under 20 milliseconds, which is essentially imperceptible and close to real life. Imagine playing a game in stunning clarity, then easily pausing to interact with the real world without any lag or visual disruption.
Beyond gaming, Google’s Gemini AI is deeply integrated into Project Muhan. There’s a dedicated button to launch Gemini, allowing you to ask questions or even explore virtual destinations. For instance, I asked Gemini to take me to the island of Madeira near Portugal, and instantly I was immersed in a virtual Google Maps environment where I could swipe, tap, and explore the location in detail.
This feature opens exciting possibilities for virtual travel, education, and exploration, especially for those unable to travel physically. You can experience new places from the comfort of your couch, fueling curiosity and adventure through VR.
Like the AR glasses, Project Muhan’s retail details remain under wraps. The release date, pricing, and official name are still unknown, though Google has hinted at a possible launch sometime this year. However, with limited information so far, delays are possible.
⏳ When Will Android XR Devices Be Available?
Android XR represents one of Google’s most exciting ventures into extended reality, but the rollout has been slow. We first heard about projects like Astra and the smart glasses last year, followed by Project Muhan shortly after. Yet, as of May 2025, concrete launch dates and pricing remain a mystery.
This slow pace leaves me cautiously optimistic. While the demos were thrilling, the lack of firm timelines makes it hard to fully commit to expectations. Still, the technology and concepts on display are promising and hint at a future where XR devices become an integral part of how we interact with digital content.
For now, all we can do is wait and watch as Google and its partners refine these devices and prepare for a broader launch. Based on my hands-on experience, I’m more excited than ever about what Android XR could bring to the table.
âť“ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Android XR?
Android XR is a new operating system from Google, designed specifically for extended reality devices such as AR glasses and VR headsets.
Do the Android XR glasses work independently?
No, the AR glasses require a connection to a smartphone to function and access features like Google’s Gemini AI.
What is Google Gemini?
Gemini is Google’s AI assistant integrated into Android XR devices, allowing users to ask questions, get information about their surroundings, and explore virtual environments.
What is Project Muhan?
Project Muhan is Samsung’s VR headset running Android XR, featuring gesture controls and support for traditional VR controllers like Xbox and DualSense gamepads.
When will these Android XR devices be available?
Google has hinted that devices may launch sometime in 2025, but no official release dates or pricing have been announced yet.
Will the VR headset support gaming?
Yes, Project Muhan supports gaming with low latency visuals and compatibility with various controllers.
Final Thoughts
Trying out both the Android XR glasses prototype and Samsung’s Project Muhan VR headset was an eye-opening experience that showcased the exciting future of wearable technology. Google’s focus on blending AI with XR through Gemini, combined with device innovations like gesture controls and intuitive displays, paints a compelling picture of what’s to come.
While the timeline and pricing are still uncertain, the promise of these devices is undeniable. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, gamer, or curious explorer, Android XR is a platform worth watching closely as it evolves.
What do you think about the future of Android XR and these new devices? Drop your thoughts in the comments below—I’d love to hear your take!
