Before you start
- A phone with the Meta Horizon app (Android or iPhone)
- A Meta account (users aged 10–12 need a parent-managed account)
- A Wi-Fi network
- About 2 x 2 metres of clear floor space for room-scale play
Method 1 Get the headset and controllers ready
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Step 1: Charge the headset
Use the power adapter and cable from the box to charge the headset fully before you start.
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Step 2: Remove the protective films
Peel the plastic films off the lenses and the sensors on the front, and take the paper off the strap. Never touch the lenses with your fingers; use the microfibre cloth.
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Step 3: Wake the controllers
Pull the battery tabs out of both controllers and fasten the wrist straps. If a controller doesn’t light up, hold its Meta button (right) or Menu button (left) until the white light blinks.
Method 2 Complete the first setup in the headset
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Step 1: Turn it on
Press and hold the power button on the left side of the headset for three seconds, until you hear a sound and see the logo.
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Step 2: Choose your language and adjust the fit
Put the headset on and loosen or tighten the side straps so it sits comfortably. Adjust the lens spacing until the text looks sharp: Quest 3 has a wheel underneath, while Quest 3S has three lens positions you set by gently moving the lenses.
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Step 3: Connect to Wi-Fi
Point the controller at your network and select it, then enter the password. Use your home network rather than a hotspot, because the headset downloads a large update.
Method 3 Pair with the Meta Horizon app
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Step 1: Install the app and sign in
Download Meta Horizon from Google Play or the App Store, open it and sign in or create a Meta account. New users are walked through pairing automatically.
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Step 2: Add the headset
If you’ve had a Quest before, tap Menu > Devices > Connect new device and choose Meta Quest 3 or Meta Quest 3S.
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Step 3: Enter the pairing code
The headset may pair automatically. If the app asks for a code, type the code that appears inside the headset.
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Step 4: Let it update
The headset installs the latest software and restarts. Keep it on charge and on Wi-Fi until it finishes.
Method 4 Set up your boundary and start playing
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Step 1: Clear your space
Move furniture, pets and anything breakable out of the way. Stay away from stairs, windows and ceiling fans.
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Step 2: Confirm or draw the boundary
The headset scans the room and suggests a play area. Accept it, or use the controller to trace your own. Choose Stationary if you’ll stay seated or standing in one spot.
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Step 3: Finish the tutorial
Complete the short tutorial to learn the controls, then open the Store to download apps and games.
Troubleshooting
The app can’t find the headset
Turn on Bluetooth and location permissions for the Meta Horizon app, keep the phone close to the headset, and make sure both are on the same Wi-Fi network. Restart the headset and try again.
Setup stuck on the update
Keep the headset charging, move closer to the router and wait. If it stays stuck for over an hour, hold the power button to restart it.
The boundary keeps disappearing
Turn on more lights and avoid large mirrors or blank walls, which confuse the tracking cameras. Then set up the boundary again from Quick settings > Boundary.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a gaming PC?
No. Quest 3 and 3S are standalone headsets. A PC is optional if you want to play PC VR games.
What’s the age limit for Meta Quest?
Meta accounts are for people aged 13 and up. Children aged 10 to 12 can use a Quest with a parent-managed account set up from the parent’s Meta Horizon app.
Can I set it up without a phone?
No. The Meta Horizon app is required for the first pairing and setup.
Summary
Charge the headset, power it on, choose your language, set the fit and connect to Wi-Fi. Then pair it in the Meta Horizon app (Menu > Devices > Connect new device), let it update, and draw a boundary in a clear space before you play.
