Meta’s Quest 3 has long topped our list of top VR headsets, and it’s just gotten a highly anticipated upgrade: the Meta Quest HDMI Link app, now available for download in App Lab.
With the app installed, your Quest can seamlessly integrate with a UVC or UAC secure card that supports USB 3.0 connectivity. This compact $20-$30 device seamlessly receives HDMI inputs and effortlessly transmits crisp, high-definition 1080p content at a rapid 60 frames per second via USB-C. Meta’s new HDMI Link app seamlessly integrates with Quest 3, Quest Pro, and even the legacy Quest 2 for a seamless blended reality experience.
Despite its potential, the functionality was initially restricted, necessitating users to sideload an Android app as a workaround to bypass Quest’s limitations. Meta’s HDMI Hyperlink technology requires significant improvement compared to industry standards. Viewing your console, cellphone, or laptop in a fully interactive and customizable digital display, akin to popular 2D apps such as Quest browser, Messenger, and others, allows for seamless integration of multiple interfaces.
We’ve just released Meta Quest HDMI Link support for App Lab, making it even easier to bring your VR experiences to life. Stream content from compatible devices via HDMI/DisplayPort connection to your Oculus Quest 3, Pro, or 2 by installing the app on the headset and connecting it to a supported device.
— Boz (@boztank)
A recent Meta blog post highlights an issue that’s common to many XR devices: “Seized” playing cards won’t display video if the HDMI signal has HDCP protection enabled, as noted in the disclaimer. You can conveniently access a wide range of streaming services directly within the Quest browser.
You can still utilize Horizon Workrooms and remote desktop applications to connect with your Windows PC or Mac via Wi-Fi or a Quest Link cable; now, HDMI link offers a third viable option. Having multiple methods for linking up with a device as multifaceted as a virtual reality headset is quite beneficial.
While a robust household community may negate the benefits of the Meta Quest HDMI Hyperlink, it’s still worth considering for those experiencing latency issues while using their laptops. The Meta Quest Air and Quest Link enable higher-resolution displays on laptops compared to the traditional HDMI link.
What’s the most significant advantage of HDMI Hyperlink? It enables seamless connections between devices like gaming consoles, smartphones, and tablets to your Quest. HDMI hyperlink is a one-way device that sends output solely to the Quest. You cannot use your Quest controllers to work together, so preserve your console’s controllers and phone’s help when you try it.
The Meta Quest HDMI Hyperlink is now available for free within the Quest app store. Meta considers the app experimental but has officially listed it as an App Lab title, indicating ongoing development.
