Tag: Snapdragon XR2

  • Samsung to Release Mixed-Reality Device in 2025

    Samsung to Release Mixed-Reality Device in 2025

    Samsung is preparing to make a significant return to the extended reality (XR) and mixed reality (MR) sectors, nearly ten years after the successful release of its Gear VR headset, which helped establish the VR market.

    Samsung’s XR Comeback: New Device Expected with Galaxy S25

    Based on Samsung’s Q3 financial report, the company is likely to reveal a new XR device in 2025. This upcoming device is expected to offer enhanced connectivity within Samsung’s ecosystem, showcasing the company’s renewed focus on XR technology. This pivot occurs as the Google Play Store has launched a category dedicated to XR applications, indicating a growing trend towards mainstream XR usage.

    The creation of Samsung’s new XR device involves teamwork with Google and Qualcomm. Earlier this year, during the announcement of the Galaxy S24 series, Samsung shared its plans for this partnership. The new XR device is said to be equipped with the Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 chip and was recently listed on Geekbench, boasting 16GB RAM and a 6-core SoC, perfect for VR applications. The device is expected to run on Android 14 and may feature advanced sensors for environmental awareness, possible health monitoring, and a micro-OLED display with high pixel density and improved brightness for immersive experiences. Additionally, it might come with a function similar to the Persona mode seen in Apple’s Vision Pro.

    Competing with Tech Giants

    As Samsung faces competition from Apple and Meta, which offer products like the Apple Vision Pro and the Meta Quest series, it is anticipated that Samsung will unveil its XR device during the Galaxy Unpacked event in early 2025, together with the Galaxy S25 series. This timing would enable Samsung to demonstrate a unified Galaxy ecosystem, positioning the XR device as an effortless addition for Galaxy users.

    With the industry moving towards lighter, smartphone-compatible AR glasses, there are also speculations that Samsung could launch AR glasses instead of a headset designed to complement smartphones. This approach could make Samsung’s XR glasses a vital accessory for Galaxy smartphone owners, integrating mixed reality elements into daily activities.

    Potential Branding Changes

    Reports also suggest that Samsung might eliminate the ‘Galaxy’ branding from its upcoming S25 series, renaming it as the Samsung S25 lineup. Furthermore, the series could introduce an S25 FE model as a more affordable option, potentially marketed as a “Slim” device.

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  • Samsung, Google Early Users in Qualcomm’s Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 Platform

    Samsung, Google Early Users in Qualcomm’s Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 Platform

    Qualcomm Unveils Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 Platform Enhancing VR Experience

    One year post the initial collaboration announcement involving Qualcomm, Samsung, and Google within the XR realm, the long-awaited Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 platform has been revealed. This updated chipset, which supersedes the XR2 Gen 2 present in the Meta Quest 3, delivers notable enhancements in graphics processing, potentially rivaling the performance prowess of Apple’s forthcoming Vision Pro headset.

    Augmented Resolution and Refresh Rate

    The standout attribute of the XR2+ Gen 2 lies in its support for an impressive 4.3K resolution per eye coupled with a 90fps refresh rate. This marks a substantial upgrade from the XR2 Gen 2’s 3K resolution, promising users a crisper and more engaging virtual reality (VR) encounter.

    Enhanced Tracking Capabilities

    Beyond the enhanced visual encounter, the XR2+ Gen 2 flaunts improved tracking capabilities. With the ability to accommodate up to 12 cameras and robust on-device AI, VR headsets leveraging this platform will proficiently track user movements and surroundings. This advancement should facilitate more seamless navigation and interaction within virtual environments.

    Amplified Processing Capability

    Qualcomm has also made notable progress in terms of processing power with the XR2+ Gen 2. The platform showcases a 15% escalation in GPU frequency and a 20% rise in CPU frequency in comparison to its forerunner. This performance boost equips the chipset to adeptly manage even the most demanding VR applications.

    Collaboration with Goertek for Reference Design

    To hasten VR headset development, Qualcomm has partnered with Goertek to craft a fresh reference design. This pre-configured platform is available in two variants – one powered by the XR2 Gen 2 for a 3K resolution adventure and another fueled by the XR2+ Gen 2 for the full 4K immersion.

    Expansion of Strategic Partnerships

    Qualcomm has affirmed that the novel Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 chip will find utility in the forthcoming XR innovations from Samsung and Google. Furthermore, the corporation has engaged with at least five other hardware manufacturers, including HTC, to advocate for its latest platform. With Samsung’s Unpacked event drawing near, thrilling VR revelations may be on the horizon as they gear up to rival Apple’s hotly anticipated Vision Pro headset.

    In summary, Qualcomm’s Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 platform ushers in significant progress in resolution, refresh rate, tracking capabilities, and processing potency for VR headsets. With collaborative alliances in place to bolster its integration, the landscape is primed for a new chapter of immersive virtual reality escapades.

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