Simple Sideloading: SideQuest Now Works in Meta Quest Headsets

If you’re the owner of a Meta Quest headset, you’ll probably already know what SideQuest is. For those that don’t, it’s a popular VR platform that plays host to a huge selection of unofficial apps, games, and tools for your Quest.

To access SideQuest previously, your headset needed to be connected to a PC or Android device so that content could be downloaded. 

Now, following a recent update, it’s now much easier to access SideQuest’s vast and growing collection of useful apps, straight from your headset.

Let’s take a look at the recent updates that streamline the sideloading process, provide new custom Home options, and added headset settings.

What Is Sideloading?

Sideloading lets you install apps and mod them without any oversight. This content is not approved or verified by Meta. 

Using SideQuest, you’ll be able to access a range of content that’s not available in the Quest Store.

How to Set Up Sideloading With SideQuest

To set up SideQuest on your headset, you simply need to download the app and sign in to your SideQuest account. To perform the set-up, you’ll need to connect your headset to your PC or Android device via a USB-C cable and then select the “Install SideQuest in your headset” option.

Once you’ve done this, head to your Quest library and go to the “Unknown Sources” tab where you’ll be able to access the SideQuest app. Here, you’ll be asked to go to the website and enter the security code provided. Once this is done, you’ll be able to start downloading content through SideQuest on your headset straight away.

What Else Is New?

The recent changes don’t just end at simplified sideloading, there are also built-in diagnostics that detect when you’re in developer mode and identify problems with ADB drivers.

The file transfer system has also been simplified. This makes the installation of ported VR games like DOOM 3 or Half-Life much easier.

The app now includes a useful instruction manual that talks you through the sideloading process. Ideal for anyone that’s new to Quest. 

Elsewhere, there has also been a range of tweaks made to Custom Homes. Now, as well as the Home environments that come as standard from Meta, you’ll be able to download custom Homes that have been created by members of the VR community such as SideQuest’s new locations; Relaxing Living Room, Space Cabin, and Sydney Apartment. 

If you’re looking for something a little more in line with your favourite game or fandom, you can also download custom Home environments based around The Simpsons, Pokémon, Naruto, Rick and Morty, Minecraft, SpongeBob, and more.

If you can’t find a Home environment you like, why not build one? You’ll also find instructions on how to create your own environments and utilise them in your game APKs. 

Can You Still Use the SideQuest Desktop App?

While the new updates will make using SideQuest smoother, the desktop app will still be supported, so you’ll still be able to access it the old way.