Play for Dream, a tech company based in China, is gearing up to introduce a standalone mixed reality (MR) headset reminiscent of the Vision Pro. The buzz around this device isn’t just about its design, which bears a striking resemblance to Apple’s offering. Those who’ve had hands-on experience, including a former Quest engineer, vouch for its impressive execution, suggesting it’s more than just a superficial clone.
Initially running a customized version of Android, Play for Dream has revealed to Road to VR its plans to eventually transition to Google’s Android XR platform. The specifics of this timeline are still up in the air, as the company is in continuous discussions but hasn’t locked in a definitive schedule.
One thing that’s unclear at the moment is whether current headsets would receive an Android XR update post-launch, or if the company would hold off until future models. Given the headset’s impending launch at the month’s end with a price tag of $1,900, it’s improbable that Android XR will feature right off the bat. Particularly so, since Google has announced that Samsung’s Project Moohan will pioneer the Android XR launch, though its release date remains undisclosed.
Though Play for Dream has made a considerable impact in China, it’s yet to become a household name in the United States. In a recent conversation with the company, more light was shed on its origins. Founded in 2020 by CEO Huang Feng, the mastermind behind Wanyoo Esports—Asia’s largest esports café chain—and Bixin, a popular gaming platform in China with over 60 million users, Play for Dream is helmed by some key figures. Chairman Zong Yuan and CTO Yue Fei stand out among its over 200-strong workforce, notably without the help of external investors.
So far, the company has sold several headsets in Asia, yet they’re currently aiming the Play for Dream MR headset squarely at the U.S. XR market. Addressing comparisons to Apple’s Vision Pro, a Play for Dream rep mentioned, “Our intention wasn’t to rival Apple directly. We admired their forward-thinking design but our focus was on crafting an Android-based device that embodies our distinct vision.”
Although the headset mirrors Vision Pro in design and interface, it sets itself apart by including support for motion controllers. The product found its initial footing through a Kickstarter campaign that kicked off in September 2024. Garnering approximately $300,000 from 215 backers, the campaign wrapped up in October.
As the Kickstarter backers begin to receive their headsets, the broader public launch is slated for the end of March, according to the company.
(Update as of March 1, 2025): The article originally misstated the headset’s price as $1,200, reflecting its Kickstarter pricing. The current retail price is corrected to $1,900.
