Project Moohan: Samsung & Google’s Android-Powered Rival to Apple Vision Pro

Project Moohan: Samsung & Google’s Android-Powered Rival to Apple Vision Pro

The world of technology is entering a new era, where smartphones, laptops, and even smartwatches may no longer be the only gateways to digital experiences. Instead, tech giants are racing to build the next big platform: mixed reality (MR). At the center of this competition stands Project Moohan, a highly anticipated collaboration between Google, Samsung, and Qualcomm to create an Android-powered mixed reality headset that rivals Apple’s Vision Pro.

The demand for spatial computing—the blending of virtual and real-world environments—is growing rapidly. Apple’s Vision Pro made headlines with its futuristic design and immersive technology, but its high price and closed ecosystem left many looking for alternatives. That’s where Project Moohan comes in, promising a premium yet more accessible option, especially for users invested in Android devices.

What is Project Moohan?

Project Moohan is the codename for a next-generation mixed reality headset being developed jointly by Google and Samsung, with Qualcomm providing the essential chipset technology. The name "Moohan" is reportedly derived from the Korean word for "infinite" or "limitless," hinting at the boundless experiences the headset aims to deliver.

The project represents one of the most significant partnerships in the XR (Extended Reality) industry, combining Google’s software capabilities, Samsung’s expertise in hardware, and Qualcomm’s cutting-edge processors. Together, these companies aim to create a standalone mixed reality headset that can compete directly with Apple’s Vision Pro while staying rooted in the Android ecosystem.

The Rise of Spatial Computing

Spatial computing refers to technology that allows users to interact with digital content as if it exists in the real world. This includes augmented reality (AR), which overlays digital information onto the real world, and virtual reality (VR), which fully immerses users in a digital environment. Mixed reality (MR) combines both, offering a seamless blend of real and virtual experiences.

Apple’s Vision Pro, launched in 2024, showcased the possibilities of spatial computing. With its ultra-high-resolution displays, advanced eye and hand tracking, and seamless integration with other Apple products, the Vision Pro set a new standard for MR headsets. However, its $3,499 price tag, limited app ecosystem, and Apple-only compatibility have left space for competitors.

Project Moohan is designed to fill that gap, offering an alternative that is more affordable, open, and compatible with Android devices, which dominate the global smartphone market.

Key Players Behind Project Moohan

1. Google

Google’s role in Project Moohan centers around software. The tech giant is developing an XR-optimized version of Android, similar to how it built Android Wear for smartwatches and Android Auto for vehicles. This version of Android will be tailored for spatial computing, enabling seamless transitions between AR and VR environments.

Google is also expected to integrate its popular services into the headset, including:

·         YouTube in immersive formats

·         Google Maps with 3D spatial navigation

·         Google Photos for reliving memories in virtual spaces

·         AI-powered interactions, likely through Google Assistant or next-gen AI models like Gemini

Google’s involvement ensures that Project Moohan will have deep ties to the Android ecosystem, offering familiar apps and services reimagined for mixed reality.

2. Samsung

Samsung, known for its leadership in displays, mobile devices, and hardware innovation, is handling the physical design and manufacturing of Project Moohan. Leveraging its expertise in OLED displays, advanced sensors, and ergonomics, Samsung aims to create a comfortable, lightweight, and visually stunning headset.

The company may also incorporate its One UI software layer, providing a user-friendly interface optimized for spatial computing. With Samsung’s history of building high-quality smartphones, tablets, and foldables, expectations for Project Moohan’s hardware are high.

3. Qualcomm

No mixed reality headset can succeed without a powerful processor, and that’s where Qualcomm comes in. The company is supplying its next-generation Snapdragon XR chipset, designed specifically for MR devices. These processors will deliver:

·         Smooth, high-fidelity graphics

·         Low-latency performance

·         Efficient power consumption

·         AI-driven experiences

Qualcomm’s XR platforms have already powered devices like Meta’s Quest headsets, making them a trusted partner for Project Moohan’s technical foundation.

Expected Features of Project Moohan

While full details of Project Moohan remain under wraps, leaks and industry insights suggest the following features:

High-Resolution Micro-OLED Displays

Samsung is expected to use cutting-edge Micro-OLED displays, offering vivid colors, deep blacks, and high pixel density for an immersive experience, potentially rivaling Vision Pro’s visuals.

 Mixed Reality Passthrough

The headset will allow users to switch between full VR and AR passthrough modes, blending real and virtual worlds seamlessly.

 Advanced Eye, Hand, and Voice Tracking

Using sensors and AI, Project Moohan will support intuitive interactions, minimizing the need for physical controllers.

 Standalone Operation

Like Meta Quest and Vision Pro, Project Moohan will be a standalone device, requiring no cables or external hardware for primary use.

 Integration with Android Devices

Project Moohan is expected to pair easily with Android smartphones, tablets, and wearables, enhancing the experience with notifications, media sharing, and more.

 AI-Powered Experiences

Google’s AI technology, including its Gemini models, will likely power intelligent features such as real-time translation, spatial search, and personalized recommendations.

How Does Project Moohan Compare to Vision Pro?

Feature	Project Moohan (Expected)	Apple Vision Pro
Display	Micro-OLED (High-res)	Dual 4K+ Micro-OLED
Platform	Android XR Ecosystem	VisionOS (Apple)
AI Features	Google AI, Gemini	Apple Intelligence, Siri
Hand/Eye Tracking	Expected Advanced Tracking	Industry-Leading Tracking
Price (Est.)	Lower than $3,499	$3,499
Compatibility	Android & Samsung Devices	Apple Devices Only
Content Ecosystem	Android, Google Services	Apple Ecosystem

Challenges Facing Project Moohan

Despite high expectations, Project Moohan faces several challenges:

 Tough Competition

Apple, Meta, and others have established strong footholds in the XR market. Gaining market share won’t be easy.

 Software & App Ecosystem

Success depends on developers creating compelling MR apps. Google’s previous ARCore platform saw limited adoption, so attracting developers is critical.

 Consumer Adoption

MR headsets remain expensive, and mainstream consumers may be slow to embrace them compared to smartphones.

 Hardware Limitations

Balancing performance, battery life, comfort, and price is complex. Overcoming these engineering hurdles is vital.

Nonetheless, Google and Samsung’s combined expertise gives Project Moohan a strong foundation to compete effectively.

Market Impact and Future Outlook

If successful, Project Moohan could reshape the mixed reality landscape by:

·         Offering a credible Android alternative to Apple’s Vision Pro

·         Expanding spatial computing beyond the Apple ecosystem

·         Encouraging more affordable MR hardware for consumers

·         Accelerating development of MR apps and services across platforms

Moreover, it deepens the strategic alliance between Google and Samsung, following past collaborations like Wear OS for smartwatches and foldable device innovations.

Early reports suggest Project Moohan may launch by late 2025 or early 2026, with development kits potentially available to partners sooner. The project signals a significant investment in making spatial computing a part of everyday life—not just for Apple users but for the broader global tech community.

Conclusion

Project Moohan represents an exciting evolution in the mixed reality space. As Google, Samsung, and Qualcomm work together to challenge the Vision Pro, consumers can look forward to a future where immersive experiences, AI-powered interactions, and spatial computing are accessible across platforms.

Whether you’re a developer, tech enthusiast, or simply curious about the future of technology, Project Moohan is one to watch as the battle for the next computing platform heats up.