The Beginning of the End for Unofficial Xbox Gear?
Microsoft just dropped a bombshell: starting November 12, 2023, all unauthorized third-party accessories for Xbox will be banned. The gaming community is buzzing, and it’s not all positive. This is a game-changer, especially when you consider the significant shifts already happening in the Xbox universe this year. From a roaring Xbox Game Pass to the acquisition of Activision Blizzard King, Microsoft is clearly pivoting—so what’s the strategy behind this new rule?
“Microsoft will ban the use of unauthorized third-party accessories on Xbox starting on November 12, 2023.”
No More Playtime for Unlicensed Accessories
For years, gamers have been using unauthorized controllers, headsets, and other gadgets with their Xbox consoles without a hitch. But those days are numbered. A mysterious error message—cryptically labeled “error 0x82d60002″—has been popping up, warning players that their “connected accessory is not authorized.” According to Microsoft, these rogue gadgets compromise the quality of gameplay.
“The message reveals that, while gamers may still use their unlicensed controllers for now, they will no longer be able to on November 12 onwards due to ‘error 0x82d60002.'”
Why Now? And Why at All?
So, why exactly is Microsoft clamping down on unauthorized accessories? Officially, it’s to enhance the player experience. The corporate giant claims that unlicensed hardware diminishes the quality of gaming—though some may argue that variety and customization make gameplay more enriching.
It’s worth noting that Microsoft has begun expanding its roster of approved third-party wireless controllers. At the moment, most approved options are wired, but that’s about to change.
“As reported by Windows Central, Microsoft is expanding its program for approved third-party wireless Xbox controllers.”
From November 12, 2023, Microsoft will no longer allow unauthorized third-party accessories to be used with its Xbox consoles.
According to sources, MS plans to expand its program for approved third-party wireless Xbox controllers.
https://t.co/jOmO8lze7n pic.twitter.com/mZfVRvodv0— Wario64 (@Wario64) October 30, 2023
Other Curveballs From Microsoft
This isn’t the first jaw-dropping move Microsoft has made recently. A string of updates has been hitting Xbox consoles, giving gamers the ability to do cool stuff like import game captures to Clipchamp for easy social media sharing. Keyboard mapping and button input options have been spruced up as well. But not all changes have been so well-received.
In Brazil, the price of the Xbox Series S console has jumped from R$2,500 to R$3,599—a whopping increase that’s miffed quite a few gamers. Now, shelling out for a Series X doesn’t seem so crazy, given its superior capabilities.
“The controversial decision may undervalue the console by making it pointless to buy a Series S when the price difference between it and the Series X is not so big, with the latter being far more powerful hardware.”
Where Does This Leave Us?
Microsoft’s 2023 moves for Xbox are shaping up to be a rollercoaster of highs and lows. On one hand, they’ve empowered the gaming community with quality of life improvements and content-rich offerings like Xbox Game Pass. On the other, they’re restricting the very freedom and customization that make gaming a unique experience for each player. The ride isn’t over yet, but this new rule might be the loop-de-loop that leaves some fans queasy.
