[K-Tech] Samsung to launch XR headset and tri-fold phone in second half

Samsung Electronics' XR headset/ Courtesy of Samsung Electronics

SEOUL, August 01 (AJP) - Samsung Electronics will release extended reality headsets and tri-fold smartphones in the second half of 2025 as part of an aggressive expansion of its Galaxy ecosystem, the tech giant said Friday. The company also plans additional mergers and acquisitions to strengthen new business areas including artificial intelligence, medical technology, and heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems.

Samsung's Mobile Experience division reported second-quarter revenue of 29.2 trillion won and operating profit of 3.1 trillion won. Revenue increased 6.6 percent and operating profit rose 39 percent from the same period last year, driven by strong sales of premium Galaxy S25 series smartphones and Galaxy Tab 10 series tablets.

The company plans to boost third-quarter performance through increased sales of Galaxy Z Fold7 and Flip7 foldable devices launched in July, while strengthening marketing for the Galaxy S25 series. Daniel Araujo, executive vice president of the MX division, said the XR headset will incorporate AI functions based on an ecosystem built through collaboration with Google.

The XR headset market has shown strong growth momentum, with the global extended reality market projected to reach 253.5 billion dollars in 2025 and grow at a compound annual growth rated of 30.4 percent through 2032, according to Fortun Business Insights. Meta currently dominates the market with a 74.6 percent share, while Apple’s Vision Pro captured 5.2 percent despite its premium 3,500 dollar price point, according to IDC data.

Samsung’s entry comes as the industry landscape shifts following Microsoft’s exit from hardware development after discounting its HoloLens 2 headset in 2024. Apple’s Vision Pro launch accelerated market interest despite initial sales momentum slowing in the second half of 2024, creating opportunities for new players like Samsung to establish positions in the expanding XR ecosystem.

Samsung acquired German HVAC company Plekt Group for 2.4 trillion won in May to expand its climate control business, targeting data center and commercial markets. The company has reactivated its M&A activities this year with three acquisitions including Plekt Group, US audio company Masimo's audio division, and US digital healthcare firm Zels.

CFO Park Soon-chul indicated more acquisitions are under consideration across various new growth areas including AI, air conditioning systems, medical technology, robotics, automotive components, fintech and semiconductors. Samsung also plans to expand sales of AI-enabled TVs and home appliances while developing HVAC operations through partnerships with US joint venture Lennox and the newly acquired Plekt Group.

Candice Kim candicekim1121@ajupress.com