Meta tests end-to-end encryption in Quest’s VR Messenger app
Meta is testing end-to-end encryption in Quest’s VR Messenger app, the company announced in a blog post. With the rollout of this test, the company is launching optional end-to-end encryption for Messenger’s one-on-one messages and conversations in VR. The test is being rolled out as part of the new v40 software update. It’s unclear how many people will get access to the test feature or how users can opt into it.
“Whether you’re telling mom about your wedding plans, talking Echo VR strategy with friends, or discussing confidential work projects, you can add an extra layer of privacy and security to your personal chats with our industry-leading technology,” the company said. in the blog post.
It’s not surprising that Meta is bringing end-to-end encryption to VR, especially since it’s working to eventually bring it to all of its services. While there isn’t an exact timeline for when this will happen, it was revealed last November that Meta is delaying the rollout of end-to-end encryption across all of its services until “sometime in 2023.”
The test comes with a few other features, including a new “Mono Audio” feature that allows users to hear the same sound from both the left and right speakers in the headset versus the standard surround sound effect. Meta also allows users to adjust the balance between the left and right audio channels. For example, if you hear better in your right ear, you can adjust the balance to the left to balance the sound. You can find the Mono Audio and Audio Balance options in the Accessibility tab of the Settings menu.
Image credit: Meta
There is also a new App Unlock feature that allows users to put specific games and apps behind an unlock pattern. For example, when an app is locked, you have to enter your pattern every time you want to unlock and launch it. The new feature can be used to ensure that children only have access to age-appropriate games. Before this feature, you could only lock an entire headset behind a pattern. Meta says this feature will be a starting point for parents as it begins rolling out its parental control tools in the coming months.
With the v40, users can also make payments with a 3DS-enabled credit card in VR, including the 3DS authorization step. Previously, 3DS authorization could only happen in the Oculus mobile app. The new software update also enables support for Apple Magic Keyboard with numeric keypad, Logitech K375s and Logitech MX Keys.
