Quest 3’s latest enhancement, unveiled during Meta Connect 2024, introduces a groundbreaking experimental feature that seamlessly integrates Windows 11 into Horizon OS v72. This innovative capability allows Quest 3 and Quest 3S users to connect to and mirror their Windows 11 PC with a simple tap, initiated by just looking at the device. This advancement is made possible through a strategic partnership with Microsoft, leveraging the built-in Windows 11 Remote Desktop technology.
Upon establishing a connection, the PC screen turns off, replaced by an expansive virtual display. Users can even create virtual side screens, culminating in a total of three virtual monitors. While it has been possible to mirror a PC display into a Quest headset using Meta’s Quest Link software or third-party solutions like Virtual Desktop and Immersed, Meta and Microsoft emphasize that this new feature eliminates the need to launch any applications. Once the feature transitions out of beta, the Mixed Reality Link app required for setup will be integrated directly into Windows 11.
How To Pair Your Quest 3 To Your Windows 11 PC
To utilize this feature, users must currently enable ‘Pair to PC with Microsoft Mixed Reality Link’ in the Experimental section of their headset settings and download the new Mixed Reality Link app on their Windows 11 PC. However, once the feature exits beta, these initial setup steps will no longer be necessary.
After enabling the feature, users will be prompted to download the new Windows App for Quest from the Meta Horizon Store. This app operates in the background to facilitate the new functionality, while the primary interface remains Meta’s Remote Desktop application. A floating virtual ‘Pair’ button will appear above any keyboard, allowing users to tap it and access an interface that instructs them to press ⊞+Y, the shortcut to launch the Mixed Reality Link app. This app then displays a QR code for the headset to scan, completing the pairing process.
After Setup, It’s Seamless
Once the initial setup is complete, users will not need to repeat any of the aforementioned steps for that particular PC, nor will they need to launch any applications. To connect to the PC in the future, a simple tap on the floating ‘Connect’ virtual button above the keyboard suffices.
But It Still Requires A Local Network
The user experience of connecting via a virtual button hovering above the PC draws inspiration from visionOS, where Apple has already implemented a similar feature for MacBook integration. However, Apple’s Mac Virtual Display stands out by automatically establishing a Wi-Fi direct connection between the Vision headset and the MacBook, allowing functionality even without a local network—ideal for travel scenarios like planes or trains. In contrast, Meta and Microsoft’s new feature necessitates a local network, which may limit its usability in various situations.
