# Sideloading Apps on Oculus Quest ## What is sideloading? ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/086/769/medium800/hacks_quest-android.png?1578525380) Your Oculus Quest VR headset doesn't need to be limited by what's available on the Oculus store. **Sideloading** is the process of uploading software to your device locally, as opposed to downloading from that platform's officially curated store – in this case the platform is **Android** and the store is **Oculus**. Once enabled, sideloading will allow you to run experimental, custom, & otherwise unreleased applications in the **.apk** format. This guide will show you how to sideload apk files using **Sidequest** – a streamlined app designed specifically for sideloading on the Quest. A less feature-rich sideloading experience is possible using [Android Debug Bridge](https://developer.android.com/studio/command-line/adb) or [Android File Transfer](https://www.android.com/filetransfer/). ## Warning Sideloading any content considered **abusive** under Oculus' [Content Guidelines](https://developer.oculus.com/distribute/latest/concepts/publish-content-guidelines/#oculus-platform-abuse-policy) could result in your account being banned or otherwise restricted by Oculus. Oculus defines abusive sideloaded content as: > - Content that appears to be infringing, copied, or pirated; or > - Content that contains malicious code; or > - Mods of applications available on or through our platform that appear to infringe on third party’s intellectual property rights, introduce malicious code, give players an unfair advantage, or are otherwise not approved; or > - Used software or other tools to extract assets or content (videos, music, etc.); or > Violated other Oculus Terms of Service, Code of Conduct, or other Oculus policies. Refer to the [full guidelines](https://developer.oculus.com/distribute/latest/concepts/publish-content-guidelines/#oculus-platform-abuse-policy) for more details. ## What you'll need - Oculus Quest - Computer running Windows, macOS, or Linux - The Android or iOS device you use to set up and control your Quest - USB cable The **USB-C****  cable **included with the Oculus Quest can be used to sideload from your computer. If you're computer lacks a USB-C connection, you'll need a** USB-C to USB-A** cable or adapter like this one:  ### USB A to USB C Adapter [USB A to USB C Adapter](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4175) As technology changes and adapts, so does Adafruit, and speaking of _adapting_, this _ **adapter** _ has a USB A plug and a USB C socket so your older computer or laptop can catch up to the latest USB Type C. USB C is the latest industry-standard connector... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4175) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/4175/guides) ![Angled shot of a shot of USB A to USB C Adapter. ](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/4175-07.jpg) - [Next Page](https://learn.adafruit.com/sideloading-on-oculus-quest/enable-developer-mode.md) ## Featured Products ### USB A to USB C Adapter [USB A to USB C Adapter](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4175) As technology changes and adapts, so does Adafruit, and speaking of _adapting_, this _ **adapter** _ has a USB A plug and a USB C socket so your older computer or laptop can catch up to the latest USB Type C. USB C is the latest industry-standard connector... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4175) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/4175/guides) ### USB C to USB C Cable - USB 3.1 Gen 4 with E-Mark - 1 meter long [USB C to USB C Cable - USB 3.1 Gen 4 with E-Mark - 1 meter long](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4199) As technology changes and adapts, so does Adafruit! Rather than the regular USB A, this cable has  **USB C to USB C**  plugs! USB C is the latest industry-standard connector for transmitting data _and_ power. Like Lightning and MagSafe cables, USB C... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4199) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/4199/guides) ### Right Angle USB Type C Adapter - USB 3.1 Gen 4 Compatible [Right Angle USB Type C Adapter - USB 3.1 Gen 4 Compatible](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4432) As technology changes and adapts, so does Adafruit, and speaking of _adapting_, this **_right angle_**  _ **adapter** _ is USB C socket-to-plug. USB C is the latest industry-standard connector for transmitting... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4432) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/4432/guides) ### Panel Mount Cable USB C to Type A - 30cm [Panel Mount Cable USB C to Type A - 30cm](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4053) This panel mount cable will allow you to enclose a device that has a USB A port, and also converts it to a modern USB C connector at the same time. Perfect for placing your project in a secure box! One end is a USB Type A plug connector, and other is a USB C socket with special... 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