Finally, my Quest 3 has obtained the lying down mode. Let me explain my admiration for this functionality and the potential issues it may create.
The reclining position was added to Quest 2 and Quest Pro through the implementation of Quest update v63. With the release of Quest update 64, the feature was also included in Quest 3, albeit with a minor delay. If it has already been made available for your Quest, you can activate it by navigating to Settings > Experimental Features.
Afterward, you have the option to recline and utilize the Meta button to adjust virtual reality (VR) and mixed reality (MR) content on a vertical plane. This enables you to enjoy the experience while lying down. Earlier, this capability was limited to sitting or standing positions, unless the applications were specifically designed to accommodate playing in various poses.
A big win for Quest’s accessibility
I have experimented with various VR and MR games utilizing the reclining mode feature. This functionality lives up to its promises and has proven exceptionally beneficial to me for a specific purpose.
I had a herniated disc last year, which still makes it difficult for me to sit or stand for long periods of time. Lying down allows me to use many games and apps for much longer. For people with this or any other condition that makes sitting and standing difficult, the lying mode is a gift from heaven.
This solution may not be suitable for every app, but that’s alright. When it comes to mixed reality apps that involve physical movement, lying down is not helpful. Personally, I prefer to play games with intense motion while standing up whenever possible. However, if this implementation makes virtual reality slightly more convenient for both me and others, then it was definitely worthwhile.
Exercise caution when using artificial means of transportation.
The fact that it took Meta so many years to implement such a mode must have had more than just technical reasons.
When I played more intense VR games such as Arizona Sunshine 2 and Dungeons of Eternity, I experienced a slight feeling of nausea. It seems that my vestibular system needs time to adjust to the sensation of moving upright in a virtual world while lying down. It reminded me of the first time I wore a VR headset and tried out simulated movement. I’m interested to see if this sensation will decrease over time, as I typically don’t get motion sickness easily.
This phenomenon is probably one of the reasons why the lying down mode is still an experimental feature that Quest users have to try and get used to. Meta writes that the lying down mode is intended for low-intensity experiences that do not require a lot of movement. Once again, the basic rule of VR consumption is that you should only enjoy content that your stomach can handle. Be it sitting, standing or, more recently, lying down.
Share your experiences with using the lying down mode by leaving a comment below.
