Fix for Meta Quest 3 setup loop issue starts rolling out this week

Meta Quest 3 owners have been facing a frustrating hurdle in their VR adventures: a persistent boot loop during the initial setup process. This issue, affecting a significant number of users, particularly those with headsets manufactured in 2024, has left many with a pricey paperweight instead of a gateway to the metaverse. Luckily, Meta has promised to roll out a fix for the Quest 3 setup boot loop issue this week.

Users have reported that during the initial setup, the Quest 3 prompts them to update to the latest software. However, the device enters a continuous reboot loop during this process. Even after leaving the headset to update for extended periods, the issue persists, leading to battery drain and an unusable device. Attempts to use Meta’s software update tool via USB have also failed, with the tool indicating that the device is not supported. Despite numerous attempts to troubleshoot, including factory resets, manual reboots, and connecting to different Wi-Fi networks, many users have been unable to get their headsets up and running.

The issue has sparked a flurry of complaints on Meta’s community forums, with some users even returning their brand-new headsets after being unable to overcome the seemingly insurmountable setup barrier.

Luckily, Meta has acknowledged the issue and announced that a fix is in the works. A forum moderator recently shared that an update is expected to roll out this week, potentially resolving the setup woes for some users. While the timeline for a full resolution for everyone remains unclear, this is a promising development for those eagerly awaiting their VR escapades.

In the meantime, some resourceful users have managed to bypass the boot loop by sideloading the latest update onto their headsets. However, this method has proven to be a double-edged sword. While it allows users to escape the loop, it often leads to another problem: the Meta app fails to connect to the headset, leaving users stranded on the pairing screen. Granted, you’d rather wait for the official fix to arrive in due course.

It’s important to note that this issue is not related to a previous problem that prevented Quest headsets from updating to the latest software build. That issue was resolved with an update rolled out on June 12, 2024. The current boot loop problem appears to be a separate issue affecting new devices and has surfaced in recent days.

Meta’s acknowledgment of the issue and commitment to a swift resolution is a positive sign for frustrated Quest 3 owners. Hopefully, Quest 3 owners will finally be able to embark on their virtual journeys soon after the fix rolls out.

Featured image: Meta