Qualcomm has made headlines with the announcement of a new mobile platform during the recent reveal of the Android XR operating system. As a key collaborator with Google on Android XR, Qualcomm has introduced a cutting-edge processor that will drive Samsung's Project Moohan headset, marking it as the first device to utilize Android XR. This latest chip is named the Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2, which is an improved version of the Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2.
Performance Enhancements
According to Qualcomm, the Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 boasts a 15% increase in GPU performance and a 20% rise in CPU maximum frequency compared to its predecessor, the Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2, which currently powers the Meta Quest 3S (available now on Amazon for $299). This new processor also features an impressive resolution support of 4.3K × 4.3K for each eye at 90 frames per second.
Seamless Transition Between Worlds
Similar to the Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2, the new chip provides ultra-fast full-color video see-through latency of just 12ms, allowing users to fluidly transition between virtual and physical environments. The on-device AI enables support for 12 or more cameras running at the same time. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 7, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, and Bluetooth 5.2.
The Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 is set to debut in Samsung's headset, which is expected to launch in 2025. However, it is anticipated that this processor will also be incorporated into other Android XR headsets that will be unveiled in the future.
Developer Support
Beyond the new chipset announcement, Qualcomm has shared that developers using its Snapdragon Spaces XR Platform will have the ability to transfer their current Spaces projects over to Unity 6, which is now compatible with Android XR. Additionally, Qualcomm plans to introduce a Snapdragon Spaces Compatibility plugin for Android XR in the first quarter of 2025. This plugin will ensure that developers' applications function smoothly on both Android XR and Snapdragon Spaces.
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