Updated
Hand/motion tracking not working
Applies to Galaxy XR.
Hand tracking on Galaxy XR uses the headset's cameras, so anything that hides your hands from them causes trouble. Samsung lists the usual suspects: protective covers over the cameras, dim light or harsh glare and shadows, moving objects and large screens nearby, and gloves or bulky sleeves. Deliberate movements inside the cameras' view track better than quick gestures at the edges. Most fixes are about the room, not the headset.
Official steps
- Make sure the cameras aren't blocked; remove protective covers
- Use adequate lighting; avoid strong shadows and glare
- Move deliberately within the cameras' view
- Keep away from moving objects, large screens and walls
- Remove gloves, bulky sleeves or accessories
Steps from the maker's support pages.[1]
Still not working?
If tracking stays poor in a well-lit, uncluttered room with clean cameras, restart the headset and check for software updates. If that does not help, contact Samsung Support and describe the lighting and what fails, such as pinches or pointing. Controllers are an alternative input while you wait. Eye aiming is a second input to fall back on: it lets you aim with your gaze and confirm with hand gestures, and Samsung starts its calibration with three presses of the Top button. Tell support whether controllers and eye aiming still work, which shows whether only hand tracking is affected.
Questions people ask
Does Galaxy XR hand tracking work in the dark?
Samsung advises adequate lighting for tracking and warns about strong shadows and glare.
Do gloves stop hand tracking?
They can. Samsung's list says to remove gloves, bulky sleeves and accessories so the cameras can see your hands.
Why does a TV nearby matter?
Samsung lists moving objects, large screens and walls among the things to keep away from while tracking. It does not explain each one, but clearing the space is the first step it gives.
Can I use controllers when hand tracking fails?
Yes. Samsung sells optional XR controllers that pair with the headset and run on a standard AA battery each.
Other fixes
- Galaxy XR battery pack not charging or turning on
- Galaxy XR screen won't wake: sensor, cable, battery
- Galaxy XR Wi-Fi problems: no connection or slow speeds
- Galaxy XR controllers won't connect: pairing steps
- Galaxy XR eye tracking off after setup or Rx inserts
Sources
- samsung.com(samsung.com)
- Galaxy XR inputs and eye aiming (Samsung US), calibration(samsung.com)
- Galaxy XR controllers (Samsung US)(samsung.com)
Last verified 5 October 2026 against the sources listed on this page.