Meta Launches New Tool for Quest Headset Software Update

TapTechNews June 24th, Meta has launched a new tool that allows users to manually update their Quest headsets to the latest system software version via computer or Android device. Previously, Quest system software was typically pushed to users in batches, and the whole process could take days or even weeks.

This web application called MetaQuest Software Update Tool uses WebUSB API technology and can load the latest update program directly onto the Quest device connected with a USB cable. WebUSB has broad compatibility and can run on Windows, Mac, Linux, Chrome OS, and even Android through Chromium browsers. This means that almost all devices can use this tool except for iPhones and iPads. It should be noted that Mac users need to use a browser other than Safari.

To use this tool, users need to log in to the Meta.com website and set their region to the United States (TapTechNews note: No need for a US account, just set the region as the United States). During the update process, the tool will guide the user to switch the headset to the Sideload Update mode. The specific operation is as follows: Hold down the power button and the volume-down button simultaneously when the headset is off until the Metalogo lights up, then release the buttons, use the volume keys to select the Sideload Update option, and finally connect the headset to the computer or Android phone, and the update tool will automatically install the latest system software. The whole process will not reset the headset, and all apps, files, and data will be retained.

It should be noted that although using the new tool to update the system can get the latest software version, it does not necessarily unlock all new features. Meta usually pushes some new features as sub-updates separately, and the push time is determined by the Meta server. For example, the v66 version of Quest 3 includes significant improvements to the passthrough feature, which belongs to the category of sub-updates.

However, users can still obtain most new features through this tool. The official Meta statement says that the main purpose of this tool is to help fix software-related problems, such as performance degradation and unresponsive applications.