Meta Quest v51 Update to Require Android 12L Security

A Twitter user teased the news amid rumours of a fresh headset software upgrade for developers

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Published: March 29, 2023

Demond Cureton

Meta Platforms released its Quest version 51 (v51) update for early access earlier this week, which offers new features for headset enthusiasts.

News of the v51 release first broke after Twitter user and coding enthusiast Basti tweeted on Monday.


Added features include local dimming support for the Meta Quest Pro and additional support for Public Test Channel (PTC) device users.

The news comes after Meta announced that all Quest developers must create apps compatible with Android 12L, effective 30 June.

Android 12L Updates and Upgrades

Meta’s move to Android 12L aims to streamline production for currently circulated Android users. It also indicates a shift to an updated Quest operating system (OS) for the Quest 2 and Quest Pro.

The upgrade will also provide greater interoperability with current smartphone users running Android 13. This also aims to improve security and enhance user experiences.

According to the tweet, the Quest v51 update would boost local dimming access to enhance the Quest Pro’s dynamic display range.

Its upgrade to Android 12L will also fully leverage Qualcomm’s Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 1 chipset used in the Quest Pro. This significantly supports Meta’s commitment to supporting enterprise metaverse technologies.

The Menlo Park-based firm explained in its announcement several key changes to behaviours on headset devices:

  1. Existing apps on lower versions would continue working, but the company would require “the minimum required [application programme interface] level from 30 June.
  2. Quest devices may send security warnings in test result pages for apps “submitted with less than level 32 API” from 24 March.
  3. Additionally, Meta will enforce API level 32 requirements for developers uploading binary packages.
  4. Meta will also enforce Android 12L software developer kit (SDK) requirements for targetSDK from 30 June.

Intel PCVR Streaming for Meta Quest Airlink

The news comes after Intel teamed up with Meta to launch its AX1690 WiFi processor to boost Quest streaming performance.

PCs with the new chip can stream directly from computers, bypassing the need to stream over WiFi router connections. Previous Quest AirLink streaming relied on wireless networks and limited connectivity for sessions.

The massive improvement in interoperability and device compatibility demonstrates the need for collaborative solutions in the extended reality (XR) market.

The news comes after the Meta Quest Pro debuted at the company’s Connect event in late October last year. The device began shipping to the United States, United Kingdom, France, and Canada.

Recently, Meta has offered a drastic price cut for its enterprise-grade headsets from $1,499 to $999. Meta lowered the price to expand its solution as an affordable contender to rival headsets.

 

 

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