Meta's most recent virtual reality headset, the Meta Quest 3, is set to receive an update packed with new features, notably the much-anticipated ability to lie down while immersed in a game or VR experience. The v64 update is currently being rolled out, ensuring that users of this VR headset will soon enjoy this new feature.
Many users have long desired the option to lie down while using Meta VR headsets, especially during casual activities like watching movies or socializing in VR environments like VR Chat. However, this feature has been challenging to implement due to the shift in the player's perspective and avatar positioning when lying down.
The previous v63 Meta Quest update in March brought the lying down feature to the Meta Quest 2 and Meta Quest Pro models. Now, with the v64 update, Meta Quest 3 users can also benefit from this functionality. Meta's CTO, Andrew Bosworth, explained that the delay in bringing this feature to Meta Quest 3 was due to differences in how the automatic boundary system works in this headset compared to others.
In addition to the lying down feature, the v64 Meta update introduces support for external microphones. Users can now connect a USB-C microphone directly to their Meta Quest 3 headset, bypassing the internal microphone for improved sound quality. The update also ensures that the device continues to cast to an external screen even when removed, and enhances the resolution and visual quality of passthrough mode. Moreover, joining others in Meta Horizon Worlds has been made more convenient, allowing users to display their current location for direct friend invites.
Some of these features are currently experimental and may not be immediately available to all users. Meta typically stages its updates, so not all headsets will receive them simultaneously. Users who do not see the update prompt after a restart are advised to keep the headset in idle mode to allow the background download of the update once it's ready. Notably, the original Meta Quest no longer receives official support and will not receive this update.
Despite increasing competition in the VR market, Meta remains a prominent player with its wireless and affordable headsets. While Meta's vision for an online Metaverse has yet to fully materialize, its headsets have offered an accessible entry point to virtual reality experiences for consumers.
Meta Quest v64 Full Patch Notes
These new features and enhancements will start rolling out the week of April 8, 2024, and will be available for Meta Quest 3, Meta Quest Pro, and Meta Quest 2 headsets.
Lying Down Feature on Quest 3
Quest 3 now supports lying down functionality for casual experiences such as media playback and stationary gaming. To activate this feature, navigate to Settings under Experimental and toggle Use Apps While Lying Down.
External Microphone Support (Quest 3 only)
Users can now utilize an external microphone with their Quest 3 headset by connecting it directly to the USB-C port or via an adapter. Switch to the external mic by accessing Settings under Experimental.
Seamless Casting Experience
When removing your headset during casting, the stream will now remain active, ensuring a smoother casting experience with the Meta Quest app.
Enhanced Passthrough Experience
Passthrough functionality has been enhanced with improved resolution, offering better clarity for viewing details and text in the real world. Additionally, image quality has been optimized for color accuracy and reduced graininess in various lighting conditions.