NEWS  Computer  January 5, 2024  Reading time: 2 Minute(s)

Max (RS editor)

In a significant move toward advancing mixed reality experiences, Qualcomm, on Thursday, announced the launch of its latest chip, the Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2. The tech giant disclosed that this cutting-edge chip would be integrated into mixed reality devices developed in collaboration with Samsung and Google. This strategic partnership, formed last year, signifies a collective effort to challenge Apple's forthcoming Vision Pro headset, a high-end device expected to debut later this year.

 APPLE VISION PRO [IMAGE CREDIT: APPLE] 

Mixed reality, a burgeoning field in the realm of virtual experiences, enables the overlay of digital content onto the real world through specialized headsets. With the new Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 chip, these collaborative efforts hint at the potential development of a more affordable mixed reality headset compared to Apple's Vision Pro, priced at a hefty $3,499 and slated for an early release this year. Apple's headset, boasting the powerful M2 processor, shares technology with some of the latest Mac models.

The Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 represents a notable advancement from the previous Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2, notably employed in the $499.99 Meta Quest 3. This new chip promises enhanced capabilities, including support for sharper screens and improved graphics. According to Hugo Swart, Vice President and General Manager of Extended Reality at Qualcomm:

"Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 unlocks 4.3K resolution which will take XR productivity and entertainment to the next level by bringing spectacularly clear visuals to use cases such as room-scale screens, life-size overlays, and virtual desktops."

 META QUEST 3 HEADSET [IMAGE CREDIT: META]

The collaboration between Qualcomm, Samsung, and Google raises anticipation for the release of mixed reality devices equipped with the Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 chip. The enhanced features of this chip suggest an immersive mixed reality experience that competes not only in performance but also in affordability. However, details regarding the launch date of these products from Samsung and Google remain undisclosed. Given our recent negative forecasts on Vision Pro, the affordability factor could be a huge key feature for Apple's competitors.  

As the mixed reality landscape continues to evolve, this collaboration signifies a shift towards democratizing access to advanced virtual experiences, challenging the market dominance of high-priced competitors. The Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 chip emerges as a key player in this narrative, promising to redefine the boundaries of mixed reality and set new standards for immersive and accessible technology.

 COVER IMAGE: FREEPIK / REVIEW SPACE