Meta's App Lab will be discontinued in August 2024, as it merges with the Quest Store to enhance app discovery and improve developer visibility. Launched in 2021, the App Lab served as a platform for niche VR experiments and in-development apps, but will now integrate into the main Quest Store for a more streamlined experience.
Integration of App Lab with Quest Store
The Meta App Lab, which facilitated the exploration of unlisted VR apps, will cease operations in August 2024. This move will merge App Lab titles with the primary Quest Store, simplifying app discovery for users and increasing visibility for independent developers. By consolidating these platforms, Meta aims to create a more efficient and user-friendly environment for both developers and users.
Simplified Submission Process
Previously, developers had to navigate separate submission processes for the App Lab and the Quest Store. With the App Lab's shutdown, Meta is introducing a unified submission process. This change is designed to make it easier for developers to submit their VR creations, reducing the complexity of getting their apps onto the platform.
Introduction of "Early Access" Tag
To accommodate apps that are still in development or unpolished, Meta is introducing an "Early Access" tag within the Quest Store. This tag will allow developers to showcase their ongoing projects, giving users the ability to make informed decisions before downloading. The "Early Access" tag aims to maintain the experimental spirit of the App Lab while integrating it into the more accessible Quest Store.
Benefits for Users and Developers
The shutdown of App Lab and its integration with the Quest Store are expected to create a more accessible and user-friendly VR ecosystem on the Meta Quest platform. Easier app discovery and a streamlined submission process will benefit both users and developers, fostering innovation and growth within the VR community.
