Microsoft reveals completely redesigned new Xbox controller aimed at accessibility

New hardware created as 'a way for more fans to enjoy gaming'

(Microsoft)

Microsoft has uneveiled a completely redesigned, new, "adaptive" controller to allow more people to play Xbox.

The new hardware looks vastly different from the traditional Xbox controller. But it aims to provide the same function for people who cannot necessarily use that product, by making it far more accessible.

The controller has been designed so that people with limited mobility or other individual needs can control their Xbox. And it has been built so that people can do that in whatever way they need, by ensuring that it can be re-programmed in whatever way a gamer might require.

"For gamers with limited mobility, finding controller solutions to fit their individual needs has been challenging," said Phil Spencer, head of Xbox.

The solutions that exist today are often expensive, hard to find, or require significant technical skill to create. A number of individuals and organizations are creating custom solutions, but it has been often difficult for them to scale when most rigs need to be so personalized."

Microsoft said it had worked with a whole range of disability organisations, as well as gamers with limited mobility. It said it had been working on the new hardware for "years", and that it was just one step in a long journey.

"Our goal was to make the device as adaptable as possible, so gamers can create a setup that works for them in a way that is plug-and-play, extensible, and affordable," said Mr Spencer.

"In addition to working with common adaptive switches that gamers with limited mobility may already own, it has two large buttons built in. These buttons can also be reprogrammed to act as any of the standard controller’s button inputs via the Xbox Accessories app."