Buzz
The Oculus Quest, now known as Meta Quest, offers an exciting experience. However, without a screen to monitor, it can be tough to keep track of how your children are using it. While VR parental controls are limited, there are still ways to establish restrictions using other available features and devices.
Understand that the Quest lacks built-in parental controls
You can review the content ratings of individual games before allowing your children to purchase or play them. However, if you're searching for a simple filter to block certain content, such a feature isn't available. The Quest’s browser also lacks parental control options.
That doesn't mean there are no options for VR parental controls, however.
Casting to other devices
One of the main concerns with VR parental controls is the inability to see what children are watching. Kids can stream movies and online videos on the headset without anyone else being able to view them. You can get around this by casting the view from the headset to another device.
First, ensure that both the headset and the device you want to cast to are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. Then, download the Oculus app to your phone and open the Settings menu in the bottom right corner. Tap on “Pair New Headset” and follow the steps to link your headset with the app.
With the Oculus on, tap the icon at the top right of your phone that looks like a headset with a Wi-Fi signal. Under “Cast From,” choose your headset and tap “Start.” You’ll then see a live feed of what’s happening inside the headset on your phone.
Save your files
You can also configure your headset to sync saved files with the mobile app, allowing you to monitor the media your children are downloading. On the headset, press the Oculus button to open the main menu, then select the Apps button. Choose the Files app, and tap the cloud icon at the top right corner.
Now, you can view any saved files under “Synced Media” within the Devices section of the Oculus mobile app. This way, you can monitor the types of content your kids are saving on the device—just keep in mind that this media will automatically disappear after 14 days.
Configure router restrictions
Although the Quest doesn’t come with built-in parental controls, you can restrict in-browser content through your Wi-Fi router. Most routers offer parental control features, allowing you to filter specific content, monitor traffic, and block particular websites.
The process will vary depending on your specific router. Consult your router’s manual to understand what options are available and how to configure them. However, keep in mind that these controls may not be compatible with every browser, so it's a good idea to test them in your headset first.
Additional security considerations
Even if VR parental controls were available, no system is perfect. A combination of methods, along with the use of third-party network security apps, will provide the best protection.
Even if content isn't a concern for you, it’s still advisable to use these controls for overall security. VR headsets, like all devices, are vulnerable to hacking, so monitoring your Quest’s usage history and stored content is a smart approach.
