UPDATE: The Xbox Adaptive Controller is available today (September 4, 2018) from Microsoft Stores, Gamestop Online, and other outlets for $99 USD.
Exciting news from Microsoft today! After 3 years of work, Microsoft announced today (on Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD)) their Xbox Adaptive Controller. They state:
For gamers with limited mobility, finding controller solutions to fit their individual needs has been challenging. 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.
The controller features nineteen 3.5mm input jacks and two USB ports, enabling industry-standard switches and specialty joysticks. Existing gumball or light touch switches will work right out of the package, and it’s possible to plug-in a custom-made controller like the QuadStick. There are two large programmable buttons with very light resistance for those who have strength difficulties or can use their feet to push buttons. The controller also comes with three custom profiles to enable switching between your favorite games quickly and easily. It can work alongside a standard controller in “wingman” mode.
It’s exciting to see the collaboration. It was developed in partnership with organizations around the world, including the AbleGamers Charity, the Cerebral Palsy Foundation, Craig Hospital, SpecialEffect, and Warfighter Engaged. Microsoft also worked directly with gamers who have limited mobility to assist in the development.
With a price point of only US $99, the Microsoft Xbox Adaptive Controller is very affordable compared to existing commercial assistive technology.
Here at Adafruit, we are very supportive of Assistive Technology, both commercial or specialty built. See other posts on Assistive Technology on the Adafruit Blog.
Are you excited about this controller? Do you see multiple uses for it? Let us know: post in the comments below!