Microsoft to Introduce Automatic Quest 3 Pairing for Windows 11 PCs in December

In September, at the Connect event, Meta revealed its collaboration with Microsoft to enable Windows 11 PCs to automatically connect wirelessly with Quest devices. Now, the companies have announced that preview access is anticipated in December.

This new capability will let users link their Quest 3 and Quest 3S to Windows 11 PCs, creating a multi-monitor setup that’s not too dissimilar from the experience Vision Pro users enjoy with their Mac systems. Since February 2024, Apple’s XR headset has provided this functionality through Mac Virtual Display.

Microsoft plans to roll out this feature in a public preview come December, aiming to attract users who want to boost their productivity levels.

“Bringing Windows into the realm of mixed reality allows us to extend the full power of Windows 11 to headsets like the Meta Quest 3 and Quest 3S. With just a few seconds, users can seamlessly connect to their local Windows machines or Windows 365 Cloud PCs, creating a private, high-quality workstation with multiple monitors,” stated Melissa Grant, Microsoft 365’s Senior Director of Product Marketing, in a blog update.

Back at the Connect event in September, Meta hinted at the ease of connecting to a PC just by glancing at the keyboard. This feature promises quick access to the computer and the ability to effortlessly move windows across numerous virtual screens—a feature that sets it apart from the Remote Desktop functionality Meta offers with its Air Link.

Quest has positioned itself as a leading standalone gaming VR console, but Meta’s CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, sees deeper Windows integration as a significant leap forward for Quest.

“We’re on the path to establishing a comprehensive computing platform,” Zuckerberg explained. “It’s not solely about gaming, although Quest excels at that. The device will also let you run apps, stream videos, and perform all sorts of tasks typical of a general-purpose computer. Quest is truly an all-in-one solution.”

We’ll keep you updated on any news about official release dates as we learn more.