The Oculus Quest 2 is a standalone virtual reality headset that doesn’t require a PC to operate. While the Quest store has plenty of great games and apps to choose from, there are even more available if you sideload content.
Sideloading refers to installing apps that aren’t available on the official Oculus Quest store. This includes games and apps in App Lab, which is an area of the store for experimental and concept titles.
Table of Contents
Benefits of Sideloading
There are a few key reasons you may want to sideload content onto your Oculus Quest 2:
- Access to App Lab games not searchable or visible on the main Quest store
- Play concept games and betas before they are officially released
- Sideload utilities and tools not allowed on the main store
- Mod games by loading modified APKs
Overall, sideloading opens up many more options beyond what comes pre-installed on your Quest 2.
Risks and Downsides
However, there are some risks and downsides to sideloading that you should be aware of:
- Potential security risks from loading untrusted apps
- Apps not reviewed by Oculus quality control
- Apps may be buggy or crash frequently
- No guarantees apps will be updated or supported
- Could void warranty by unlocking bootloader (advanced option)
As long as you stick to loading apps from trusted developers, especially those in App Lab, the risks are minimal. Just be careful what you install.
Requirements
To get started with sideloading, you need:
- Oculus Quest 2 headset
- Oculus mobile app on iOS or Android
- PC or Mac with file browser
- USB cable to connect Quest 2 to computer
You’ll use the Oculus mobile app to enable developer mode on your headset, then use a USB cable and file browser to transfer APK files.
Instructions
Follow these steps to successfully sideload apps onto your Oculus Quest 2:
1. Enable Developer Mode
You first need to flip a switch in settings to allow sideloading:
- Open Oculus mobile app and connect Quest 2
- Go to Settings > Device
- Toggle on Developer Mode
Enable Developer Mode
Developer mode just gives you permission to run unofficial software.
2. Accept PC Connection Request
- Connect your Oculus Quest 2 headset to your PC or Mac computer using a high-quality USB-C cable
- A connection prompt will appear on your headset
- Accept the prompt to allow data transfer between devices
If you don’t see the prompt, you may need to enable USB transfer manually in Quick Settings on your headset.
3. Transfer APK Files
Now you need to use your computer’s file browser to transfer APK files over USB:
- Navigate to your Quest 2 storage on your PC
- It will appear as a connected device or removable disk
- Copy over any APK files into the Download folder
Copy APKs to Download Folder
You can obtain App Lab APK files from the official App Lab DB catalog.
4. Install Apps from Unknown Sources
With your APK files transferred, it’s now time to install them:
- Put on your headset and go to Settings > Device
- Toggle on Unknown Sources
- Go to the Library tab
- Select Downloads from the sidebar
- Select the APK file and confirm installation
Install from Unknown Sources
Allowing unknown sources permits installation of apps from third parties.
5. Launch Apps
Now you’re all set to use your newly-installed App Lab games and apps:
- Find them in your Library under the Unknown Sources tab
- Certain apps may require manual launch the first time
- You can uninstall or reinstall apps here as needed
Be sure to read any instructions from the developer, as some apps may require extra steps or have special functionality.
Tips for Managing Sideloaded Apps
Here are some tips for handling your sideloaded apps:
- Set up SideQuest for easy APK downloads and installs
- Use a file manager app like File Commander
- Backup your apps in case you need to factory reset
- Check apps for updates manually on a periodic basis
- Only keep apps installed that you actually use to save space
Taking just a little extra time to organize and manage your sideloaded apps will ensure you have the best experience.
Unlocking the Bootloader (Advanced)
This option is not recommended for most users.
However, if you wish to unlock the bootloader on your Quest 2 to flash firmware updates, it comes with increased risks:
- Will factory reset your device, erasing all local data
- Voids manufacturer warranty
- Opens headset to deeper system modification
Unless you have a specific technical need, it’s best for most users to keep the bootloader locked.
