Sideload Games on Oculus Quest with Ease!

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Initial Steps for Sideloading
   1. Registering as a Developer
   2. Enabling Developer Mode on Your Quest
   3. Installing the SideQuest App on a PC or Phone
3. Sideloading from Within Quest/VR
4. Conclusion

Introduction

In this guide, we will explore a new method for sideloading games on your Oculus Quest without the need to connect it to a PC or mobile phone. This experimental build makes the sideloading process much easier and hassle-free. While some initial steps do require a PC or mobile phone, they only need to be done once. Whether you're new to sideloading or already have SideQuest configured, this guide will walk you through the process step by step, so you can start enjoying a wider range of games on your Quest.

Initial Steps for Sideloading

Registering as a Developer

To enable Developer Mode on your Quest, you first need to register as a developer. Don't worry, it's a simple and free process. Just follow these steps:

1. Open a browser on any device and go to dashboard.oculus.com.
2. Log in using the same account you use for your Quest.
3. Click on the Create button in the menu and fill out the required information. You can use any organization name since it's not a real developer account.
4. Follow the steps and agree to the terms and conditions.
5. Verify your account if prompted to do so using a credit card or phone number.

Once the registration is complete, you will see your new organization listed in the drop-down menu, indicating that your account is ready for sideloading.

Enabling Developer Mode on Your Quest

Now that you're registered as a developer, it's time to enable Developer Mode on your Quest. Follow these instructions:

1. Launch the Oculus app on your mobile device or PC.
2. Click on the menu and navigate to Devices.
3. Make sure your Quest headset is turned on and connected to the app.
4. Scroll down and tap on Developer Mode.
5. Toggle Developer Mode on.

Next, go back to the Settings and ensure that you're not using an Unlock Pattern. If everything looks good, reboot your Quest by holding-pressing the power off button.

Installing the SideQuest App on a PC or Phone

To sideload games onto your Quest, you'll need to install the SideQuest app on either a PC or a phone. Here are the two methods:

Using a PC/Laptop

If you have a PC or laptop available, follow these steps:

1. Go to sidequestvr.com and click on "Get SideQuest."
2. Download the correct file for your PC's operating system.
3. Once the download is complete, double-click on the file to begin the installation process.
4. Follow the instructions until the installation is finished.

In some cases, you might also need to install the Oculus Go ADB drivers. You can find the drivers and installation instructions on the SideQuest website.

Using an Android Phone

If you don't have a PC or laptop, you can still sideload games using an Android phone. Please note that this method does not work on iOS devices. Here's what you need to do:

1. On your Android phone, go to the Google Play Store and search for the SideQuest app.
2. Download and install the app on your phone.
3. Launch the app and grant any necessary permissions.
4. Connect your Quest to your phone using a USB cable.
5. Allow the necessary permissions on both your phone and Quest when prompted.

If you want to sideload wirelessly using WiFi, follow the instructions within the app to set it up. Otherwise, you can proceed to the next step.

Sideloading from Within Quest/VR

With the initial steps completed, you can now sideload games directly from within your Quest VR headset. Here's how:

1. Put on your Quest headset and click on the app's icon.
2. Open the drop-down menu at the top right of the screen.
3. Click on "Unknown Sources" and locate the SideQuest app.
4. Launch the SideQuest mobile app from within VR.

Previously, sideloading required an external device, but with this new experimental build, you can now sideload apps without needing any additional hardware. You can download apps that are not available in AppLab, such as the Beat Saber mod BMBF or Questcraft. Of course, you can still use this method to download AppLab games as well.

If you come across an app or game you want to install, simply click on the download button. If it's your first time sideloading in this manner, you may be prompted to give permission again. Just follow the on-screen instructions and allow the necessary permissions. The app will then be installed on your Quest.

It's worth mentioning that the SideQuest app expands the library of games available for your Quest, although not all of them are polished. Nonetheless, it offers a fun way to explore a wider range of VR experiences.

Conclusion

Sideloading games on your Oculus Quest has never been easier, thanks to the new experimental build. This guide has walked you through the initial steps and explained how to sideload games directly from within your Quest. Now you can enjoy a greater variety of games and experiences on your Quest without the need for external devices.

If you encounter any issues or have questions, please refer to our FAQ page on our website for troubleshooting steps. Feel free to ask any additional questions in the comments section below. Don't forget to hit the like button to show your support.

VR on!