A new open-source bootloader exploit called QuestStack grants full root access to the original Meta Quest headset, removing reliance on Meta's servers and services. The project chains previously known Android fastboot vulnerabilities into a privilege escalation chain, allowing users to sideload apps without a Meta Developer account and bypass initial setup requirements. Enthusiasts are also exploring how root access may unlock locked hardware features, including the 90 Hz refresh rate John Carmack admitted was being held back to 72 Hz.
Background
Meta (formerly Oculus) released the original Quest headset in 2019 but officially stopped supporting the device in 2023 to focus on Quest 2 and Quest 3. The QuestStack project empowers owners of the discontinued hardware with full device independence.
- Source
- Ars Technica
- Published
- Aug 26, 2026 at 12:04 AM
- Score
- 6.0 / 10