Everything You Need to Know About Oculus for Business (OFB)
The new Oculus Quest 2 is one of the best standalone XR headsets on the market right now. With its powerful built-in processor, you no longer need a computer to operate the headset, no external sensors are necessary to track movements, and the entire package is available at a relatively low purchase price. It's no wonder Oculus currently dominates the XR market. However, to date, Oculus has had one major drawback: it is a consumer headset, and due to certain restrictions, it is quite challenging to use in a business or commercial setting. Fortunately, Oculus has found a solution: the Oculus for Business
Acquired by Tech Giant Facebook
Oculus was acquired by tech giant Facebook a few years ago and has since become known as the market leader in virtual reality. With the Quest 2, Oculus has hit a home run and now belongs to the absolute top of VR hardware for consumers. Since Oculus is a part of Facebook, they require every user to log in with an active Facebook account on the headset. This is to prevent the Quest from being used in places where it isn't allowed without a license, such as within a company or at a virtual arcade.
With the Quest for Business licence, you solve this problem immediately. In addition to extra software features (such as Kiosk Mode and device management), the Oculus Quest 2 can be used in a business or commercial environment without any issues. You also no longer need to log in with an active Facebook account, which is a plus for many organisations, such as government agencies and universities.
* Findings fromSteam’s research show that no less than 57% of all virtual reality users use a headset from Facebook/Oculus.
Oculus for Business removes physical barriers and offers powerful new ways to connect, collaborate, and learn.
Quest 2 for Business Hardware
The business edition of Quest 2 offers exactly the same hardware specifications as the consumer version. It is a standalone headset, which means the user does not need an external computer. Additionally, the Quest 2 headset has built-in tracking sensors, eliminating the need to set up external sensors as you would with an HTC VIVE.
The Quest 2 is a lightweight headset with a compact design. Where the Quest 1 put a lot of pressure on the front of the headset (causing red pressure marks on your forehead after extended use), the new Quest 2 offers a much more comfortable experience. The headset comes standard with an elastic band, similar to the Oculus Go. However, for extra comfort, the Elite Strap can be purchased, making the headset fit more comfortably. For the ultimate experience, you can buy the Elite Strap with a built-in battery for even longer enjoyment of the Quest 2.
Overall, the build quality of the headset is very good. Only the lenses leave something to be desired. They are only adjustable to a limited extent, making it difficult for some users to get a sharp image. Additionally, although the resolution of the Quest 2 for Business is higher than some comparable standalone headsets, the graphical representation seems a bit less impressive. This is particularly noticeable in graphically demanding applications, such as Arizona Sunshine and The Climb.
Quest 2 for Business Software
The true value of Oculus for Business becomes evident when it comes to software. As previously mentioned, there is little difference in hardware between the consumer version and the business version. However, there are many features on the software side that are only possible with the Quest 2 for Business.
One of the biggest advantages of Quest for Business is the Device Management function. This allows business users to link all Quest headsets they own to their ownOculus workplace and control them remotely. The administrator can, for example, set up and manage all headsets remotely, including enabling and disabling certain functions and determining which apps are installed on each headset. Since there is no standard app store on the headset, this is the only way to install apps without sideloading. Note that to implement apps in this way, APKs must be added, meaning you currently need to work with developers of business applications, such asReality on Demand Studios andEnversed Studios, to implement apps correctly. Note: it is therefore not usually possible to use the (consumer) Oculus Store.
Data protection and privacy
Data privacy is a constant concern for companies, especially when it comes to employee data. This becomes important in the virtual reality world, as XR headsets can collect and report large amounts of user data as part of their normal operation. While this is indeed the case for the consumer version, Oculus has reduced data collection and reporting for the business version of Quest 2. However, data is still collected, especially if you enable hand tracking. The user must agree to these terms before the headset can be used.
With the consumer version of Quest 2, you must always be logged in with an active Facebook account. It is not possible to create a separate account just for the Quest 2 because Oculus actively searches for so-called "ghost accounts". If you do this, it may result in your account being blocked, making the headset unusable. Fortunately, this barrier has been removed for the Quest 2 for Business. You do not need to log in with a Facebook account; only with a separate Oculus account (not linked to Facebook).
Sideloading and streaming
Via Device Management, most apps are installed remotely on the Quest 2, but it is also possible to do this through other means. The first method is by installing the Oculus software on a computer and connecting the headset to the computer via a USB cable. This activates Oculus Link, allowing you to run and stream applications and games from the computer to the headset without installing them on the headset itself. This way, you can use the headset to view and run content from the regular app store. It is important to note that the computer must meet certain requirements to be compatible.Oculus software
The other method is via sideloading with a program like SideQuest, which allows you to install apps directly on the headset, provided you first enable the developer mode for the headset via Device Management. Note that there is a limit to the number of managed headsets that can be in developer mode at the same time. This method requires the application to be started while the headset is connected to the computer. Once the application is started, the headset can be disconnected and used normally.
Conclusion: Is Oculus Quest 2 for Business Worth It?
Quest 2 for Business is currently the best business option for standalone VR headsets. Its ease of use, good image quality, and extensive (remote) software options offer numerous applications in the field of business VR. However, if you have a powerful PC and don't mind a wired setup, then an external sensor-based headset like the HTC VIVE Pro is still a very good option. The external sensors provide a better tracking experience, and since the headset is connected to the computer's graphics card, games and applications can be displayed much more beautifully. The new HP Reverb G2, with its extremely high image resolution, is also a good choice for running high-quality applications and games on the computer.
But are you looking for a VR headset that is easy to use and mobile to implement? Then the Oculus Quest 2 for Business is the right choice!
More information about Oculus Quest 2 for Business? Contactcontactus and we will be happy to assist you further! Prefer to receive a quote directly? Please fill out our contact form, and we will provide you with a proposal as soon as possible.
Oculus Quest 2 for Business-oplossing: Frequently Asked Questions
The new Oculus Quest 2 is the successor to the popular Quest 1. The headset is revolutionising the virtual reality-markt space, but it also comes with some drawbacks. Oculus has determined that the headset is intended solely for consumenten-gebruik. Businesses and other entities (such as government institutions and universities) are not permitted to use the Oculus Quest 2 as standard. You can read more about this in the detailed vraag-en-antwoorden list below.
Note: Facebook, or Meta, announced last November that the Oculus for Business programme will be replaced by the new Quest for Business programme, which will be available in beta around mid-2022. Consequently, Oculus for Business can be ordered until 15 December 2021.
General
- What is Oculus for Business?
Oculus for Business-oplossing is available to you upon purchasing an Oculus Quest 2-headset. Oculus for Business on Oculus Quest 2 provides a secure and reliable solution for implementing virtual reality (VR) in a business environment. The offer includes: the ability to use Quest 2 for commercial purposes within your commercial organisation (as defined here); a one-year licence for business software (with the possibility of extension) which you can use to set up and manage VR-apparaten and create a professional launcher in the headset; and data security for the duration of your licence.
- What is the difference between the consumer edition devices you can find in retail and online and the business edition?
There is no difference in the hardware of the consumenten- and business devices. However, the consumer editions of the devices are subject to consumer terms of service (https://www.oculus.com/legal/terms-of-service/), which grant the right to use the software only for personal and niet-commerci use, whereas the Enterprise version of Oculus is subject to the enterprise user agreement (https://business.oculus.com/legal/enterprise-use-agreement/) which grants the right to use the applicable software for commercial purposes within a commercial organisation. Additionally, the Quest 2 is suitable for the end-to-end Oculus for Business-oplossing, as described below. The in-headsetsoftware of the Oculus Quest 2 differs from the in-headsetsoftware in the consumer edition of Oculus Quest.
- Who is Oculus for Business-oplossing designed for?
Oculus for Business-oplossing is designed for: businesses wishing to implement a large-scale VR-oplossing deployment with internally developed VR-inhoud or VR-inhoud from an external developer that was not sourced through the Oculus-winkel, and who want to manage their own device group; businesses that want to implement a large-scale VR-oplossing deployment for customers (such as demos and VR-ervaringen) under direct supervision and management by the business. Devices used in this model are directly managed by the business and may not be taken home by end users; and developers testing their app to make it available through Oculus for Business. This is for testing purposes only. Developers may not manage deployments on behalf of a business's customers.
- Who is not allowed to use Oculus for Business-oplossing?
Oculus for Business-oplossing is NOT intended or allowed for: businesses that manage, rent, or lease deployments on behalf of customers without personnel being present at all times to manage and monitor the devices' usage; businesses wishing to deploy VR-inhoud for their employees using consumer apps provided through the Oculus-winkel; or Business-to-consumer-gebruiksscenario where customers expect to own or take home the devices.
- Which countries are supported by Oculus for Business?
If you do not reside in one of the listed countries, you cannot receive support from Oculus, and we advise you to seek an alternative solution. More countries may be added in the future. Supported countries include: The United States, Canada, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Ireland, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Australia, Japan, Nieuw-Zeeland, Taiwan, and the United Kingdom.
- How can I purchase an Oculus for Business-apparaat?
Purchases of Oculus for Business can be made directly via the Oculus website. For (semi-)government organisations and larger companies, it can sometimes be difficult to order via the Oculus site due to aankoop- and payment conditions. Unbound XR offers a solution for these customers by allowing them to purchase Oculus for Business through our webshop. This means we pay the Oculus-factuur for you -, and your company receives an invoice from Unbound XR. A small administrative fee is charged for this service, which is included in the quotation you - will receive upon request - from us. Request your quote here
- What happens if I switch from consumer software to business software or vice versa?
Your Quest 2-apparaat comes preloaded with consumer software. It is not possible to upgrade a consumer Oculus headset to an Oculus for Business version later. If you have a Quest 2-apparaat with Oculus for Business software and choose not to renew your subscription, this may result in your device being reset to factory settings and any stored content being lost. Your device will then revert to the consumer version. It's possible to reactivate the business subscription and restore the business account after that.
- Will I receive a reminder to renew my subscription to Oculus for Business-oplossing for the Quest 2?
You will receive a notification to renew your subscription when it is about to expire. If you choose not to renew your subscription, you will lose access to the business software, and any stored content will be lost.
- Can we contact an external developer or independent software vendor (ISV) to develop content?
Yes. You can contact an external developer or ISV, or develop your own content for the business software. See ourlist of Oculus software developers.
Legal terms
- What is the enterprise user agreement?
The enterprise user agreement is a set of terms and conditions that apply to your business Oculus-producten for commercial or business purposes. You can find the full text of the enterprise user agreement here (https://business.oculus.com/legal/enterprise-use-agreement/).
- Can we use content purchased in the Oculus-winkel for commercial purposes?
The content you purchase in the Oculus-winkel is intended for consumer use. If you wish to use third-party content on your Oculus for Business-producten, you must have permission from the relevant third party to use their content for commercial or business purposes. Please note that there is no Oculus-winkel available for the business software of Oculus for Business.
- Can I lease my Oculus for Business-apparaten to third parties?
You may purchase devices and use them within your own business or for demonstration purposes. However, the enterprise user agreement does not allow products to be leased to third parties unless your personnel is present at all times to manage and monitor the devices' usage by third parties. The additional conditions for supervised rentals are detailed in the Extended Community-headset Licence at http://business.oculus.com/legal/headset-extended-community-license/. An extensive discussion of rental rights and -beperkingen under supervision can be found here.
- Is sideloading content allowed?
Devices with consumer software only have the option to sideload content.Oculus for Business-apparaten do not offer this possibility.
