Samsung and Google Collaborate on Mixed Reality Tech

In a strategic move to compete with Apple's upcoming Vision Pro mixed reality headset, Samsung, Google, and Qualcomm are joining forces to develop a new mixed reality platform. The collaboration aims to create an open ecosystem similar to Android, which has revolutionized the smartphone market. TM Roh, president of Samsung's mobile experience division, emphasized that the partnership will not focus on a single product but rather on establishing a comprehensive mixed reality environment that could encompass various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and PCs. The initiative comes in response to the renewed interest in mixed reality technologies, sparked by Apple's Vision Pro, set to debut in early 2024. Roh indicated that the short-term focus would likely involve integrating mixed reality features with existing smartphones, providing users with enhanced experiences through their current devices. This approach could give Samsung and Google a competitive edge over Meta, which is also exploring AI integration in its Quest headsets. As the project unfolds, questions remain about the specific devices that will emerge from this collaboration. Samsung has previously ventured into virtual reality, and speculation surrounds whether the company will adapt existing smartphones for mixed reality or introduce new devices alongside upcoming phone releases. The anticipated headset is expected to serve as a wearable extended display, allowing users to interact with familiar applications in a mixed reality setting. Overall, this partnership marks a significant step in the evolution of mixed reality, positioning Samsung, Google, and Qualcomm as key players in a rapidly developing market.