Xbox users will no longer be able to play games with “unauthorized” third-party controllers and accessories next month. If you try to connect an unauthorized controller with your Xbox console, you’ll be met with an error code instead.
Microsoft considers unauthorized controllers and accessories as those not manufactured by the company or another “licensed Xbox hardware partner.” Users will see the code 0x82d60002 if they try to connect an unauthorized controller and will know that they will have to switch their gear.
“From the moment you connect an authorized accessory and receive error code 0x82d60002, you’ll have two weeks to use the accessory, after which time it will then be blocked from use with the console,” Xbox’s support page said.
That means, if you plug in your controller today, it’ll be blocked by November 12.
The message suggests returning the incompatible accessory to the store and offers a link to Microsoft’s authorized accessories. The block will likely impact manufacturers of the third-party controllers. Gaming hardware company Brook Gaming took to X, formerly Twitter, earlier this month warning users of “functional disruptions in the near future.”
It’s possible this change is designed to redirect customers to Microsoft’s own store and products. The company could also be preparing for the possible refresh of its mid-gen Xbox next year as well as the new hybrid Xbox in 2028.
The news was spotted earlier by Windows Central.