Microsoft has embarked on a crusade against “unauthorized” controllers and accessories for Xbox consoles, with a complete cessation of functionality slated for November.
Users employing unofficial accessories are already seeing warning messages pop up. The letter informs users that their devices will continue working for an additional two weeks after receiving the notification, after which they will be rendered inoperative. Some users have even reported that their controllers ceased functioning immediately upon receiving the warning, bypassing the specified deadline.
This update exclusively affects controllers from third-party manufacturers without the “Designed for Xbox” certification. In simpler terms, these devices lack the Microsoft equivalent of the “Made for iPhone” badge.
Currently, most certified Xbox controllers from third-party manufacturers are wired. Microsoft has not provided licenses to third-party brands for the Xbox Wireless protocol, maintaining its near-monopoly on official wireless gamepads.
It is speculated that this crackdown on unlicensed accessories could lead Microsoft to issue certifications for third-party wireless controllers. This move is expected to enhance the legitimacy and quality of non-Microsoft Xbox accessories.
These changes have caused ripples within the gaming community, with concerns about affordability, compatibility, and whether this could potentially restrict innovation in controller designs. While Microsoft aims to ensure quality and uniformity, it remains to be seen how the gaming community and third-party manufacturers will react to these new developments.
