Qualcomm's new chips power the next generation of AR glasses and headsets

Earlier this year, during the Galaxy S23 launch event, Samsung made an exciting announcement about its collaboration with Google and Qualcomm to create its first mixed-reality headset.

The big question on everyone's mind is whether this upcoming Samsung XR headset will use Qualcomm's Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 chip.

Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2: A Game-Changer for Mixed Reality

1. Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 is Qualcomm's flagship processor designed for AR, MR, and VR headsets.

2. Developed in collaboration with Meta and already used in Meta's Quest 3 mixed-reality headset.

3. Offers 2.5x faster GPU and 8x faster AI processing compared to the previous generation.

4. Supports impressive 3,000 x 3,000 pixels resolution per eye for sharp visuals.

5. Improved textures, frame rates, and reduced jitter.

6. 50 percent more power-efficient GPU eliminates the need for external batteries.

7. Enhanced support for up to 10 concurrent cameras and rapid see-through mode transitions.

8. Promises thinner, lighter, and more comfortable headsets.

9. Faster connectivity with Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.3.

Will Samsung XR Headset Use Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2?

1. Qualcomm's AR/MR headsets based on this chip are expected to launch in early 2024.

2. Speculation that Samsung might opt for an exclusive chip for its mixed-reality headset.

Snapdragon AR1 Gen 1: Elevating AR glasses

1. Qualcomm's latest chip tailored for AR glasses.

2. Highlights include improved on-device AI processing, noise cancellation, and image quality.

3. Supports up to 12MP cameras (6MP for video) and up to eight microphones for enhanced camera quality and audio.

4. On-board cameras offer autofocus, auto-exposure, computational HDR, and portrait mode.

5. Supports 1,280 x 1,280 pixels resolution per eye.

6. Incorporates on-glass AI processing for features like visual search and real-time language translation.

7. Enhanced connectivity with Wi-Fi 7.

Qualcomm's Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 and Snapdragon AR1 Gen 1 chips are poised to bring significant advancements to the world of mixed reality and augmented reality. While we anticipate the launch of AR/MR headsets featuring the XR2 Gen 2 in 2024, the choice of chip for Samsung's XR headset remains a mystery.

Regardless of the chip chosen, the future of mixed-reality experiences is looking brighter than ever, with improved visuals, performance, and comfort on the horizon.