Samsung prepares to challenge Apple’s Vision Pro, latest patent filing reveals

Apple launched its XR headset– the Vision Pro– earlier this year. There is speculation that Samsung could unveil its first XR headset before the end of this year. Now, in the latest development, Samsung has submitted a patent application hinting at the development of a VR headset.

Also read: Meta & LG join hands to challenge Apple’s Vision Pro: All you need to know

The patent application, submitted to the Korean Intellectual Property Office, describes the technology as “Communication methods and apparatus utilising avatars in virtual space,” reports MySmartPrice.

Also read: Twitter reacts with laughs to Apple’s Vision Pro headset shown at WWDC23 

As outlined in the document, the headset is designed to project virtual avatars to users by leveraging multiple sensors to gather data from their surroundings.

Interestingly, the patent doesn’t directly mention the term “headset”, but it hints at a wearable device for the user. While the data strongly suggests a VR headset, the lack of disclosure could be due to confidentiality reasons.

Samsung’s headset might connect smoothly with wireless headphones and smartwatches. This means it could use data like heart rate from these devices to create a virtual character. Also, users might be able to share real-time workout and exercise details with others.

Additionally, the headset is expected to include various sensors such as an accelerometer, gyroscope, camera module, infrared sensor and more, to track the user’s movements and position in real-time. The data could be utilised to present an interactive graphical user interface (GUI), allowing users to view a digital avatar and engage with their environment.

The documents also suggest the potential inclusion of an integrated navigation system along with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth support.

Moreover, the device is expected to incorporate its processor, GPU, and NPU to handle the processing of data. These functionalities will likely be powered by a rechargeable battery, although the exact placement of the battery within the device remains unclear.

The concept seems similar to Apple’s Vision Pro, utilising sensors to create a virtual environment within the headset. However, Samsung’s plans to integrate with external devices like smartwatches and wireless headphones could make its headset better.

It’s worth noting that these details are solely based on the filed patent, and the final product may undergo significant changes before release.