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How to use ADB commands in SideQuest, MacOS Terminal, and Windows Command Prompt
How to use ADB commands in SideQuest, MacOS Terminal, and Windows Command Prompt

Steps to on how to use ADB commands

Anthony Gallardo avatar
Written by Anthony Gallardo
Updated over a week ago

Overview

ADB (Android Debug Bridge) commands are useful for various tasks, such as installing apps, accessing device files, and debugging Android devices. This guide will walk you through the steps to use ADB commands in SideQuest (a popular tool for managing VR content), MacOS Terminal, and Windows Command Prompt.

Prerequisites

  • Have ADB installed on your computer. If you haven't installed it yet, you can follow the official Android documentation for instructions on how to set up ADB for your operating system.

    --- OR ---

  • Install Sidequest (Advanced Installer is recommended, and ADB comes installed with Sidequest).

  • Android's USB Debugging enabled (included under Developer Mode, for devices like Meta Quest). You can refer to the device manufacturer's documentation for instructions or see our USB Debugging Collection for help enabling Developer Mode/USB Debugging.

SideQuest

  1. Launch SideQuest on your computer and connect your VR device via USB.

  2. In SideQuest, click the Run ADB Command button. This is where you can enter ADB commands (see highlighted option below from SideQuest app).

  3. Type the desired ADB command in the text box and press Enter to execute it. For example, you can use the command adb devices to list the connected devices.

NOTE: Sidequest comes with a few commands preloaded (e.g. - List Devices, Reboot Headset, etc), and provides the means to add custom commands as well for repeated use.

macOS Terminal

  1. Open the Terminal application on your Mac. You can find it under Applications > Utilities or use Spotlight (Cmd + Space) search for and open it.

  2. Connect your VR device to your Mac using a USB cable.

  3. In the Terminal window, navigate to the location where you have ADB installed. If you're using the default installation, you can simply enter adb followed by the desired command.

  4. Type the desired ADB command and press Enter to execute it. For example, you can use the command adb devices to list the connected devices.

Windows Command Prompt

  1. Open the Command Prompt on your Windows computer. You can do this by searching for "Command Prompt" in the Start menu.

  2. Connect your VR device to your computer using a USB cable.

  3. In the Command Prompt window, navigate to the location where you have ADB installed. If it's added to your system PATH, you can directly enter the desired ADB command.

  4. Type the desired ADB command and press Enter to execute it. For example, you can use the command adb devices to list the connected devices.

💡NOTE: Make sure to refer to the official ADB documentation for a list of available commands and their usage. Additionally, exercise caution when using ADB commands, as some commands can have significant effects on your device.

By following these steps, you can effectively use ADB commands in SideQuest, macOS Terminal, and Windows Command Prompt to manage and interact with your VR device.

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