Oculus has outlined in its v25 software update for Quest and Quest 2 headers. The most notable change for both developers and users is App Lab, a new method of distributing developmental VR apps that do not require Oculus Store approval and do not require sideloading. Consider this software as the equivalent of early access for VR.
Oculus has stated in its press release that it wants to keep the quality standard high in its store, which is why it is splintering App Lab apps from its main store. But it wants to foster a community where developers can share their existing creations openly and easily with Quest owners.
Once a developer has submitted their App Lab app to Oculus, users can easily access it via a URL, or they can be found by searching for their exact name in the Oculus Store. SideQuest, a popular website that offers apps and games that can be placed on the Quest headset, will also offer App Lab apps. Presumably, many of the apps and games offered there may soon get App Lab support, making it easier for people to try some of the experiences offered there without downloading them.
App Lab gives developers the opportunity to broadly open their apps to the general public to try to generate unique keys if you just want to give certain people access. And from the user’s point of view, any App Labs apps you download can be found in your Quest library of apps and games.
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Oculus says more than 10 App Lab titles have been launched, including the experiences pictured above. However, the site made a mistake when I clicked on it during publication.
Several other features come in this update, including Messenger for VR, which allow you to keep Facebook chats going while immersed in your Quest headset. The Oculus release notes also mention ‘Stationary Guardian 2.0’, which offers even better quality of life if you want to use VR safely while in a stationary place instead of using the room.
Whether you use VR software in room or idle mode, the Oculus’ Passthrough highway is now more easily accessible and no longer buried in the experiment settings. With the feature, you can see your surroundings through the Quest or Quest 2 cameras by double-tapping the area where the headset meets the headset.
If you ever want to pair a Bluetooth mouse with your Quest headset, you’ll be able to do that soon. To find this feature, go to settings, click on “Experimental features”, and you will get it there soon.