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In a move that has stirred the gaming community, Microsoft has announced its decision to disallow the use of unauthorized third-party controllers and accessories for its Xbox consoles. This policy, set to take effect from November 17, 2023, is designed to enhance “performance, security, and safety” for Xbox users.
The news was first reported by Windows Central on October 29, where it was noted that players had been encountering an error code “0x82d60002” when they tried to connect a third-party accessory to their Xbox consoles. The error was accompanied by a pop-up message stating, “Using unauthorized accessories compromises your gaming experience. For this reason, the unauthorized accessory will be blocked from use on 11/12/2023.”
The message further advised players to return the product to the store or contact the manufacturer. In a statement provided to GamesIndustry.biz, Microsoft clarified that the error message was not a glitch but an intentional part of its new policy.
The tech giant emphasized that accessories designed and manufactured by Microsoft and other licensed Xbox hardware partners adhere to quality standards for performance, security, and safety. Unauthorized accessories, on the other hand, could potentially compromise the gaming experience on Xbox consoles, including Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S. As part of the new policy, gamers may receive a pop-up warning if their accessory is unauthorized. Eventually, these unauthorized accessories will be blocked from use to maintain the quality of the console gaming experience.
Microsoft has directed users to its official website for a comprehensive list of accessories that are supported on Xbox consoles. Insiders who spoke to Windows Central suggested that this move by Microsoft is aimed at facilitating the manufacture of official third-party controllers. The new policy could potentially allow these controllers to use wireless features that are compatible with the Xbox, possibly through the incorporation of a security chip. However, this also means that existing third-party controllers that have not been approved by Microsoft will become obsolete.
