Play for Dream, a company hailing from China and known for developing a mixed reality headset reminiscent of Apple’s Vision Pro, is planning to integrate Android XR as its primary standalone operating system.
Despite being labeled a “Vision Pro knock-off” due to its striking resemblance to Apple’s device, many who’ve had the chance to try it out have realized it offers much more. In fact, a former engineer from Quest has even praised its execution, highlighting its quality beyond just aesthetics.
Currently, the Play for Dream headset runs on a custom version of Android, but the company is in ongoing conversations with Google about transitioning to Google’s Android XR platform. A representative from Play for Dream mentioned to Road to VR that while discussions are progressing, there is no set timeline for this change.
It’s uncertain whether Android XR will be incorporated into the current model after launch or if future models will debut with the platform. Since the headset is set for release at the end of the month, it’s improbable that Android XR will be ready in time. Especially since Google’s collaboration with Samsung on Project Moohan suggests that their headset will likely debut with Android XR, but its launch date is still under wraps.
Though Play for Dream is fairly known in the Chinese market, it’s just beginning to make its mark in the US. In a recent conversation with the company’s team, they shared more about their origins.
Founded in 2020 by Huang Feng—also the brains behind Wanyoo Esports, Asia’s largest esports café chain, and Bixin, a prominent Chinese gaming platform—Play for Dream has since grown with over 200 employees. Surprisingly, the company has achieved its expansion without any external funding. Other notable members include Chairman Zong Yuan and CTO Yue Fei.
Although the company has already sold some headsets across Asia, the primary target for the Play for Dream MR headset is the US mixed reality market. Addressing how close their product resembles Apple’s Vision Pro, a spokesperson clarified, “Our intention wasn’t to directly compete with the Apple Vision Pro. We were inspired by its design but aimed to create an Android-based device that captures our unique vision.”
While the headset’s aesthetics and interface do mirror those of Apple’s, a key differentiator is that Play for Dream will support motion controllers.
The inception of this headset can be traced back to a successful Kickstarter campaign in September 2024, where it raised around $300,000 from 215 backers. With backers already receiving their units, the broader release is anticipated at the end of March, according to the company.
