Microsoft’s decision to go all-in on software backward compatibility with the Xbox Series X has gone pretty well. However, did we forget about accessories?
Another question to ask could be, “will a third-party controller or your favorite headset, preferably Xbox One, work with the Xbox Series X?”
Well, YES! Recently, Microsoft unveiled the new “Designed Xbox” label, and the fun part is that they promised most officially-licensed Xbox One accessories can still be used on the Series X.
According to Microsoft:
This means any officially licensed Xbox One accessory that connects wirelessly through USB or to your console through Ethernet will also work on Xbox Series X. this is good news.
To add, Xbox Series X will have support for the headset that connects through your Xbox Wireless Controller’s 3.5mm port.
Also, some headsets that use an optical cable may need a firmware update to support chat and game audio over USB on Series X. Headsets and soundbars that do not receive updates can be connected to your TV optical port.
In fact, from this holiday, a ton of Designed for Xbox controller charging solutions will come with a second battery door to fit both the new and existing Xbox Wireless Controllers.
Again, Microsoft revealed a list of third-party organizations making Series X accessories—34 in total—and other products they’re working on…
See the list below:
• Bang & Olufsen is a luxury audio brand based in Struer, Denmark. Every Bang & Olufsen product is characterized by the unique combination of beautiful sound, timeless design, and unrivaled craftsmanship. Since 1925 Bang & Olufsen has been pushing the boundaries of audio technology and now joins Designed for Xbox with a new audio proposition for the high-end gaming segment.
• Audeze is an award-winning premium audio technology company focused on science, innovation, and craftsmanship. Their passion for precision audio has earned them several patents and an outstanding reputation among audiophiles, gamers, and professionals worldwide. Audeze will be releasing the Penrose X Wireless Planar Magnetic Headset as their first Designed for Xbox product, and can’t wait for Xbox Series X players to experience the unparalleled audio quality.
• OtterBox is the No. 1 most-trusted brand in smartphone case protection, and they’re teaming up with Xbox in the development of the next generation of gaming accessories. OtterBox will unveil a holistic portfolio of accessories early next year designed to keep gamers connected when it matters most, wherever they might be. As the long-time leader in mobile protection, OtterBox is excited to develop for Xbox as it leads to go-anywhere gaming.
• Nacon is a French gaming brand created in 2015 that designs and distributes a wide range of gaming accessories that aims to meet the needs of all players on console and PC, from casual to pro-gamer. Nacon will be developing officially licensed controllers for Xbox One, Xbox Series X, and PC, and mobile gaming accessories for cloud gaming with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.
• Honeycomb Aeronautical is a worldwide leader in flight simulator hardware, both for home use and flight training. They will be working with Microsoft on developing the next generation of class-leading flight controls for Xbox Series X and Microsoft Flight Simulator.
• Geek Made Designs specializes in creating ‘furniture for your controller’ with their reliable wood controller and console stands. Their love of gaming and their passion for design drive each product they make and regularly inspire new creations. They take great pride in every creation as they locally source and select each piece of lumber from the Pacific Northwest, then cut, carve, and hand finishes their designs.
• Cable Matters offers a complete line of cables, adapters, docking stations, and networking products for the home, office, and data center. They are excited to partner with Designed for Xbox on active optical HDMI cables. These cables will reliably deliver the new console’s next-generation graphics at distances up to 10 meters, a distance virtually unachievable with traditional HDMI cables.
What do you think? Any favorite Xbox One accessories you can’t wait to use once you upgrade to XBSX? It’s going to be so much fun if you ask me.