The Moohan project, unveiled at the end of last year by Samsung, is a mixed reality headset running on Android XR. While a commercialization to the general public is scheduled for this year, this headset should above all serve as a model to follow for other manufacturers interested in Google's new software platform.
The Vision Pro in the crosshairs
YouTuber Marques Brownlee (MKBHD) had the opportunity to test the Moohan headset for a few hours, and it is clear that Samsung was largely "inspired" by the Vision Pro. The design is very similar with an aluminum chassis reminiscent of a pair of ski goggles, the battery is also wired but in USB-C: it can therefore be used to power any other product, and connect the headset to any external battery. The Vision Pro uses a proprietary connector.
Another difference: Samsung did not go so far as to copy the external EyeSight screen reproducing the user's eyes, which on the Vision Pro is not very useful (it's even a bit creepy to tell the truth). Incidentally, this should reduce the cost of the product, which is always good to take. There is also a touchpad on the right arm, and the anti-light cover can be removed if you don't like it.
Beyond the headset itself, whose price and availability date have still not been revealed, it is mainly Android XR that is attracting attention. Here too, without much surprise, it was visionOS that served as inspiration. The similarities are uncanny, from the interface to the manipulation of windows, including the support for hand and eye movements.
The headset is compatible with keyboards and mice, it is also possible that Samsung will slip controllers into the package, like the Quest. Fortunately, Google is also bringing some new features. As with Android, users have access to the Play Store catalog, which immediately provides a vast selection of apps. To make the most of XR capabilities, developers will be able to offer optimized versions of their applications.
Google has also adapted several of its apps for Android XR, including YouTube and Google Maps. There’s none of that on the Vision Pro. The Gemini assistant also knows how to control the interface, for example to replace windows on the home screen, and even to pick up information from an application. It’s sometimes faster to ask something by voice than to engage in numerous hazardous manipulations. For example, it’s possible to ask Gemini to display the Maps map of a place that you see in a photo in a magazine!
Also on the menu: the “Circle to search” function is available! Rather practical, you just have to surround an object with your finger to perform a search and obtain information. There are still many questions unanswered around this Moohan project, but unlike previous attempts by Samsung (remember Gear VR) and Google, Android XR gives the impression of having a solid and technologically viable base.
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