After previewing the feature early last year, Meta has released a new update that allows Meta Quest 2 and Pro headset users to turn on a setting that allows the devices to work while lying down.
In a blog post, Meta explains that the Quest v63 update brings back Laying Down mode for those specific headsets. This feature allows users to sit down or lie on a bed or couch and still play games without standing up for extended periods. Unfortunately, owners of the Quest 3 do not have access to the feature; though Meta did not explain why, it may be due to the Quest 3's mixed reality capabilities.
While some games, such as VRChat and Armature Studio's Resident Evil 4 VR, provide a sitting option, most virtual reality games necessitate players to stand up for prolonged periods during gameplay. Theoretically, this is a great feature for those looking to play their favorite Quest games but are either too tired or want to keep playing but want to sit down. Or they want to keep playing Beat Saber but don't feel like standing, and as Android Central pointed out last year, Beat Saber players will need to add modifiers to remove the walls if they want to play the game when Lying Down mode is enabled.
Of course, there are a lot of jokes one could make about the feature, but it is important to point out that Lying Down Mode is also a great accessibility feature, specifically for those who cannot stand up for long periods due to medical issues or who are unable to stand up at all.
Lying down mode can be accessed by heading to the Experimental Features Settings tab and enabling "Use Apps While Lying Down."
Taylor is a Reporter at IGN. You can follow her on Twitter @TayNixster.
