Xbox Introduces Four New Accessibility Features – Xbox Wire

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Xbox Unveils New Accessibility Devices and 3D Printable Files: A Commitment to Inclusive Gaming

At Xbox, our mission is to empower gamers everywhere to play the games they love, with the people they choose, in any location, and in a way that suits their needs. This commitment extends to making gaming accessible for over 425 million players with disabilities worldwide.

Today, we are thrilled to announce the addition of three new accessibility devices and 3D printable files for adaptive thumbstick toppers to our existing lineup. These new tools are designed in collaboration with the Gaming & Disability community and nonprofit organizations, ensuring they meet the diverse needs of players with disabilities. The new options include the Xbox Adaptive Joystick, 3D printable files for adaptive thumbstick toppers available through Xbox Design Lab, and two specially designed controllers: ByoWave’s Proteus Controller and 8BitDo’s Lite SE 2.4G Wireless Controller. Additionally, we are enhancing our packaging to make it more accessible.

Xbox Adaptive Joystick

The Xbox Adaptive Joystick is a response to the feedback from players who need an affordable, single joystick to complement the Xbox Adaptive Controller and other Xbox controllers. Designed as a wired companion, it caters specifically to players with limited mobility. Years of research, testing, and collaboration with players with disabilities and accessibility experts have culminated in this versatile joystick.

The Xbox Adaptive Joystick features four button inputs on the front, a standard Xbox thumbstick, and two additional buttons that replicate the bumper and trigger buttons found on a traditional controller. All buttons are customizable, allowing players to tailor their gaming experience to their comfort.

Key Features:

• Versatility: Can be controlled with one hand, mounted on tabletops, or operated using non-hand body parts.
• Integration: Connects seamlessly with the Xbox Adaptive Controller for a full adaptive setup.
• Customization: Button remapping and creation of multiple controller profiles via the Xbox Accessories app.
• Mounting Options: Can be connected to any ¼”-20 threaded mount equipment (sold separately).

  The Xbox Adaptive Joystick will be available in early 2025 in select Xbox markets worldwide and sold exclusively through the Microsoft Store at $29.99 USD ERP. For more information, visit Xbox.com.

  3D Printable Files for Adaptive Thumbstick Toppers
  

  We’ve listened to players’ needs for more customization options for thumbstick toppers. In collaboration with community members, charity organizations, and a hospital specializing in adaptive gaming and 3D printing, we have developed complimentary 3D printable files for adaptive thumbstick toppers available through Xbox Design Lab.

  This initiative offers six adaptive thumbstick topper designs that players can 3D print to customize the height and width of their thumbsticks. The designs include:

• Plate-shaped topper: Shallow, indented surface for larger body parts like the chin.
• Dome-shaped topper: Rounded, convex surface for various grip strengths.
• Stick-shaped topper: Narrow cylindrical grip for increased height and leverage.
• Pull thumbstick topper: Deep, bowl-shaped surface to reduce pressure.
• Sphere-shaped topper: Ball-shaped surface for alternative thumbstick operation.
• Custom topper: Allows players to create their own shapes with shapable materials like clay.

  To get started with the 3D printable files, visit Xbox Design Lab and follow these steps:

  1. Visit the Xbox Design Lab website.
  2. Select Adaptive Products from the top navigation bar.
  3. Choose the Xbox controller the toppers are for: Xbox Wireless Controller, Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2, or Xbox Adaptive Joystick.
  4. Select a thumbstick topper shape and adjust its height and width.
  5. Download the 3D printable file and print it using a 3D printer or a 3D printing service.
     

     8BitDo Lite SE 2.4G Wireless Controller
     

     We are excited to partner with 8BitDo to introduce the Lite SE 2.4G Wireless Controller, designed for gamers with limited mobility. This controller features low-resistance buttons and highly sensitive Hall Effect joysticks, making it easier for everyone to play. All buttons are accessible on the top, and it includes a non-slip silicone mat for stability.

     The Lite SE can connect wirelessly with a 2.4G adapter or be wired directly to Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, or Windows 10 and above. It also has two programmable Super Buttons that can be mapped without extra software and is fully compatible with the Xbox Adaptive Controller. The 8BitDo Lite SE is available now for $59.99 USD ERP. For more information, visit 8BitDo.

     ByoWave Proteus Controller
     

     After four years of development, the ByoWave team has launched the Proteus Controller. This device was highlighted for Global Accessibility Awareness Day and is now available for purchase. The Proteus Controller features "snap and play" parts for personalized customization, allowing players to create their unique setup with over 100 million combinations. The module mapping system makes it easy to save and switch configurations.

     The ByoWave Proteus Controller is available now for $299 USD ERP in the United States, Europe, United Kingdom, and Canada. For more information, visit ByoWave.

     New Toggle Hold Feature
     

     We are also introducing a new accessibility feature: the toggle hold. This feature, similar to sticky keys on a computer, allows players to assign any button or port on the Xbox Adaptive Controller, Xbox Adaptive Joystick, or Xbox Elite Series 2 controller to stay pressed until pressed again to release. This feature supports players who have difficulty holding prolonged button presses and is available to Xbox Insiders today.

     Accessible Packaging
     

     Our goal is to incorporate intentional and inclusive practices into everything we do, including our packaging. Inspired by feedback from the Gaming and Disability community, we have designed the packaging for the Xbox Adaptive Joystick with accessibility in mind. The packaging features:

• A center-seamed shipper with looped tape for easy removal.
• A large base-tab for an uncomplicated out-of-box experience.
• A hinged box lid with a large loop for product access.
• Ample space around the product for easy removal.
• A large loop for seamless cable folio access.
• No twist ties on cables for simple handling.

  We have also redesigned the packaging for the new Xbox Series X|S console options, incorporating loops on the accessory box for easier removal and a top-down opening for improved access.

  Conclusion
  

  Gaming with a disability is highly individualistic, and we are committed to continuously investing in Xbox’s accessibility offerings. With the Xbox Adaptive Joystick, 3D printable files for adaptive thumbstick toppers, and the Designed for Xbox controllers, we are excited to provide more choices that allow players with disabilities to customize their gaming setups and enhance their gaming experience with Xbox.

For more Information, Refer to this article.