META CTO Reveals Google’s Lack of Interest in Bringing Play Store to Quest
In a recent AMA session on Instagram, META CTO Andrew ‘Boz’ Bosworth addressed the absence of 2D Android apps on the Quest Store. Despite the Quest hardware running a modified version of Android, Google has not shown interest in bringing the full Play Store of apps to the Quest. Bosworth clarified that Android developers can easily bring their APKs to VR by submitting them to META, with only some light modifications needed to adjust the control scheme. However, this process is specific to apps published directly on the Quest Store, leading to questions about the compatibility of the millions of apps available on Google’s Play Store.
Bosworth explained that META does not have a way to automatically ingest APKs from the Play Store, and consequently, developers would need to take the initiative to port their apps to VR. META reportedly urged Google to bring their Play Store of apps to VR, but the search engine giant declined the offer. This leaves the responsibility on developers to adapt their apps for VR independently.
Potential Challenges with Google Play Store on Quest
While the Play Store offers a wide range of applications, Bosworth did not touch upon certain complications that could arise from having it on the Quest. For instance, revenue splitting and app publication methods could pose challenges for both META and Google. Google currently takes a 30% revenue cut from developers for non-subscription-based apps, while META follows a similar revenue-sharing model for both the Quest Store and App Lab. Integrating two prominent digital storefronts on a single device could create conflicts between the platforms.
Another aspect to consider is the Samsung-Google-Qualcomm partnership, which aims to release an Android-powered XR headset. This suggests that Google is still invested in the VR headset market, despite discontinuing its Daydream VR platform and AR glasses project, Project Iris.
Alternatives for Users
While the Play Store might not be available on the Quest directly, the device itself operates on the Android platform. As a result, users have the option to sideload APKs using SideQuest software, which simplifies the process. However, it is important to note that users are responsible for finding the APKs themselves. Despite this limitation, sideloading enables users to access apps such as Spotify and Netflix, enhancing their VR experience.
If you are interested in sideloading apps on your Quest headset, make sure to check out our comprehensive guide on How and Why to Sideload Games on Quest. This step-by-step tutorial will walk you through the process of getting both 2D and VR-native apps on your Quest, emphasizing the benefits of sideloading.