Microsoft allows more licensed wireless controllers for Xbox

Microsoft appears to be loosening its restrictions around the use of the proprietary wireless technology behind its Xbox controllers. Windows Central sources report this. At the same time, 8BitDo is launching the first licensed, wireless fight stick for the Xbox.

8BitDo’s fight stick is only the second unofficial wireless controller licensed for the Xbox One and Series. Came recently also PowerA with a third-party wireless Xbox controller. Before that, the landscape of third-party wireless Xbox controllers consisted only of… offer from Razer, and that concerns the standard Microsoft hardware with just a different imprint. Microsoft seems to have recently opened the doors to such third-party wireless controllers for Xbox consoles. That anonymous sources at Windows Central also agree. Before the arrival of the PowerA controller, players only had the choice of the official controller, the Elite controller and the Adaptive Controller.

The 8BitDo fight stick also supports the wireless protocol of the Xbox One and Series at 2.4GHz, but can also connect to the console or a Windows PC via USB-C. The battery should last 30 hours without headphones connected and with it it will last 20 hours. The 1000mAh battery should be charged in 4 hours.

Furthermore, the standard functions of more expensive 8BitDo hardware are present. There is support for the Ultimate software, in which button mappings and profiles can be adjusted. In addition, the buttons and stick can be replaced by other hardware if desired. There are models in white and black. Amazon reports a release date of June 30th and 8Bitdo mentions a price of $119.99.