HEADSETS - HTC VIVE & Pico - How to install custom .apk

    Overview

    Sideloading custom APKs on standalone VR headsets generally requires two steps:

    1. Enable Developer Mode (to permit installs from unknown sources and USB debugging)

    2. Transfer & install the APK via ADB (on PC) or an on‑device file manager/installer.

    Below are device‑specific guides, with links to each manufacturer’s own documentation.

    HTC Vive Focus 3 and Vision

    1. Transfer the APK

      • Via USB: Connect the Focus to your PC with a USB‑C cable. In the headset, select File transfer when prompted. On your PC, open Internal shared storage > Download, and copy your APK there.

      • Via SD Card: Copy the APK to an SD card, then insert it into the headset.

    2. Enable Unknown Sources

      • In the headset, go to Settings > Advanced, then turn on Allow unknown apps.

    3. Install the APK

      • In Settings > Storage > File browser, navigate to the APK and select it to install.

      • Once installed, the app appears in your Library—use the filter to find it quickly.

    Documentation:
    https://www.vive.com/us/support/focusvision/category_howto/installing-apk-on-headset.html

    Pico 4

    1. Transfer the APK

      • Connect the Pico 4 to your PC with a USB‑C cable.

      • On your PC, open the headset’s storage and copy the APK into Internal shared storage.

    2. Install via File Manager

      • In the headset, open the File Manager app and select APKs.

      • Choose the APK you transferred and confirm installation.

    3. Access the App

      • After installation, find your app in Library (under All or use the filter).

    Documentation:
    https://www.icaros.com/fileadmin/user_upload/PICO4_Manual_EN.pdf

    Pico 3 (G3)

    1. Transfer the APK

      • Connect via USB‑C and set the cable mode to File Transfer.

      • Copy the APK into internal storage (e.g., the Download folder).

      • Accept any “Authorize USB debugging” prompts in the headset.

    2. Install via File Manager

      • Use the built‑in file manager (or sideload one like SideQuest) to locate the APK under Downloads or APK.

      • Tap the APK and follow on‑screen prompts to complete installation.

    Documentation:
    https://knowledge.matts-digital.com/en/virtual-reality/pico/pico-g3/how-to-install-apk-files-on-the-pico-g3-headset/


    Published