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How to sideload games

Sideloading is how you install games on your Meta Quest, Pico, or other Android-based headset from sources outside the official store. Here’s the complete process:

1. Set up your headset for sideloading

On your phone, open the Meta Horizon (formerly Oculus) app. Tap Devices, then your headset, then Headset settings, then Developer mode. Toggle it ON.

2. Install SideQuest on your computer

Download the SideQuest Advanced Installer from sidequestvr.com. It works on Windows, Mac, and Linux.

3. Plug your headset into your computer

Use the original USB-C cable (or any decent data cable). Put the headset on — you’ll see a popup asking to allow USB debugging. Tap Allow.

4. Download an APK from ClubHouseVR

Browse our games library, click the green Download button on any title, and the APK saves to your downloads folder.

5. Install the APK via SideQuest

Open SideQuest. Click the box-with-arrow icon in the top bar (‘Install APK file from folder on computer’). Pick the .apk you just downloaded. Wait for it to finish.

6. Launch from inside your headset

In the Meta Quest menu, open Apps, then change the dropdown from ‘All’ to Unknown Sources. Your sideloaded game is there. Click to play.

Troubleshooting

  • SideQuest doesn’t detect my headset: Try a different USB-C cable, make sure Developer Mode is on, and put the headset on (USB debugging prompt only shows when worn).
  • APK won’t install: Make sure you have enough storage on the headset. Some games are 1-2 GB.
  • Game crashes on launch: Check the game’s page on ClubHouseVR for any sideload notes or known issues.