Third-party accessories can be a versatile and cheaper alternative to official console controllers. But with Xbox’s ban on unofficial controllers and accessories, you’ll likely want to know how you’re affected as an Xbox owner. Let’s take a look.
Why Has Xbox Banned “Unauthorized” Third-Party Controllers?
If you utilize third-party Xbox controllers, you’ll want to know why Xbox restricts your accessory choices. However, Xbox’s ban only affects “unauthorized” third-party controllers, as evidenced bythe official Xbox website. All third-party accessories involved in the Designed for Xbox program are unaffected.
As for why Xbox felt the need to ban “unauthorized” third-party accessories and controllers, there are a few main factors:
So, while there are sales incentives for Xbox, the ban itself acts to quality control the third-party controllers and accessories you can use on Xbox One or Xbox Series X|S.
However, if youconnect an Xbox controller to your PC, you can still use unofficial controllers for PC gaming, just not via an Xbox One or Series X|S.
What Happens if You Use an “Unauthorized” Third-Party Controller
While Xbox may have had good reason to ban unofficial third-party devices, you will still want to know how your devices are affected by the ban.
Luckily, how Xbox bans “unauthorized” third-party devices provides you time to return your device or contact the manufacturer. So, regarding what happens if you connect an “unauthorized” third-party device to your Xbox, the process is as follows:
If you are unsure if your third-party device is “unauthorized”, you may connect it to your Xbox. As long as you don’t receive error code0x82d60002, you know you can carry on using your device as normal.
What Third-Party Controllers Can You Still Use With Your Xbox?
Even if your third-party devices receive error code0x82d60002, you don’t have to abandon third-party Xbox controllers altogether. In fact, despite the ban, you can utilize a vast majority of third-party Xbox devices.
Xbox still supports third-party devices involved in the Designed for Xbox program. But Xbox also highlights that any third-party controllers that feature an official Xbox logo between the left and right triggers should be useable on all Xbox consoles.
As for identifying whether third-party devices are Designed for Xbox, you should look for the official Designed for Xbox logo when buying new devices. Alternatively, you can register your third-party devices viathe official Microsoft websiteto determine if your device is official.
And you can still utilizethe best Xbox Wireless Controller tips and tricksfor use with most Designed for Xbox gamepads, maintaining functionality.
Utilize Third-Party Devices on Xbox Without Compromising Your Console
While Xbox’s ban on unofficial third-party controllers and accessories restricts the devices you can use on Xbox, it does ensure the safety and security of your Xbox console and gaming experience.
And with plenty of third-party devices being a part of the Designed for Xbox initiative, you can still utilize third-party devices, just so long as they are officially approved by Xbox.
