You shouldn’t have to juggle three distinct PC functions for seamless Meta Quest casting, immersive PC VR experiences, and remote desktop access.
Meta has merged Casting and Distant Desktop into Meta Quest Link, the Windows utility that also enables your Quest headset to function as a PC-based VR headset, offering a first-party alternative to Steam Link and Digital Desktop.
While you may have previously set up your quest for a wider screen ratio on your PC’s online browser, it’s essential to note that this adjustment only applies to a 16:9 aspect ratio, leaving cropped square formats unaffected. Moreover, such browsers typically lack built-in recording capabilities. Previously, these options necessitated the installation of a dedicated PC tool, the Meta Quest Developer Hub, which demanded registration as a developer and the activation of developer mode on your headset. Meta now integrates casting functionality within the Meta Quest Link app.
Despite this, the Meta Quest Hyperlink does not seem to support the “Casting 2.0” Cinematic Mode available in the Meta Quest Developer Hub, which enables the headset to display a broader field of view than what the user can see, allowing for uncropped widescreen captures.
Meta has streamlined its branding by updating the Meta Quest Link logo from white to black, eliminating confusion with the identical logo used for the Meta Quest Developer Hub.
Quest’s Workrooms now provides you with additional Windows display options too.
Horizon Workrooms for Quest is now compatible with Windows, allowing you to access two additional digital displays beyond what’s available on macOS alone.
The third-generation Quest PC application has been discontinued entirely. The Meta Quest Distant Desktop feature, previously necessary for viewing your PC display on the Distant Show and Horizon Workrooms Quest apps, has now been integrated into Meta Quest Link as well. Meta has rebranded the Distant Show application on its Oculus Quest virtual reality headset, now called Distant Desktop.
You still wish to utilize Meta Quest Developer Hub or alternative platforms like SideQuest to sideload APKs directly into your VR headset, rather than manually entering the necessary information. Now, if you’re only looking to enable casting, PC VR, or remote desktop access, the Meta Quest Link feature on your PC is all you need.
