Galaxy XR emerges as the market’s most repairable headset
Samsung introduced its first mixed-reality headset, the Galaxy XR, in late October, positioning it directly against devices such as Apple’s Vision Pro. With both products occupying a similar premium tier and offering comparable mixed-reality capabilities, curiosity has grown regarding how Samsung has engineered its headset internally and how practical it is to maintain over time. A detailed teardown now provides a clear view of the internal structure, the design choices made by the company, and how these decisions influence repairability, durability, and long-term usability for owners who expect longevity from such a high-value device.
The teardown highlights that the Galaxy XR immediately distinguishes itself through its approach to power. Rather than relying on a sealed internal battery, it uses an external battery pack, making replacement straightforward and avoiding many complications that typically arise with enclosed battery systems in competing headsets. Because the battery connects via a removable USB Type-C power cable, users also gain the flexibility to use alternative compatible power sources, including larger power banks, extending usage time beyond the bundled unit.
Another practical advantage lies in the headset’s padding and facial interface components. Cushions and face attachments connect magnetically, allowing easy removal or replacement whenever required. This benefits hygiene and comfort, as these are usually the first elements users wish to refresh after extended wear. Moving deeper into the device, disassembly begins with the clear front plate, which requires heat and plastic tools for removal. Once detached, the internal frame is secured with multiple Phillips screws, and the use of standard screws significantly contributes to its strong repairability rating.
The teardown does highlight a tamper sticker stating the device is void if opened, something considered problematic in regions such as the United States, where it conflicts with consumer protection rules. Even so, the hardware remains far more accessible than many rival headsets.
Samsung has mounted outward-facing cameras, sensors, and its Lidar unit on a shared plastic frame, connected through Phillips screws, plastic tabs, and adhesive flex connectors. This structure allows relatively direct access to deeper components, presenting fewer obstacles compared with devices such as the Vision Pro or Meta Quest Pro, which often feature more complex internal layering.
Inside, the main board houses the Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 chipset, memory, and storage. Removing it reveals another frame containing the pancake lenses, dual 4K micro-OLED displays, and multiple eye-tracking cameras. Downward-facing hand-tracking cameras sit within the aluminium chassis, while the interior fabric requires careful handling due to its tighter integration. Even with these challenges, the headset remains easier to access and service than many of its competitors.
Overall, the combination of an external battery system, widespread use of Phillips screws, magnetic components, and a modular internal layout results in a device that supports simpler servicing and part replacement. Although the company has not yet released an official repair manual, the structural design already places the Galaxy XR ahead of most mixed-reality headsets in terms of practicality and user-friendly maintenance potential.
