Microsoft has officially launched the Xbox Adaptive Joystick, expanding its lineup of accessibility-focused gaming hardware. The announcement was made during the company’s annual Ability Summit, an event dedicated to advancing technology that supports users with disabilities.
A Joystick Designed for Accessibility
The Xbox Adaptive Joystick is built specifically for gamers with limited mobility, offering a customizable and user-friendly experience. It features four programmable button inputs on the front, along with two additional bumper and trigger-style buttons that can be mapped according to individual needs. A standard thumbstick is also included for improved control and versatility.
At just $30, this adaptive joystick is significantly more affordable than Microsoft’s official wireless Xbox controller, making it a cost-effective option for gamers who need accessibility enhancements without breaking the bank.
More Accessibility-Focused Innovations from Microsoft
The Adaptive Joystick isn’t the only big accessibility announcement Microsoft made at this year’s summit. The company is also introducing AI-powered upgrades to the Windows Narrator screen reader. These enhancements will enable the software to generate detailed image descriptions, making it easier for visually impaired users to understand visual content. This feature will first be rolled out to Windows Insider members in the coming months.
In addition, Microsoft Teams is receiving an important update for users who are deaf or hard of hearing. The software will soon be able to automatically detect when someone is using sign language and prioritize them as a speaker in meetings. This feature builds on the existing Sign Language View, but now streamlines the process by making it an automatic function rather than requiring manual activation. Users can expect this update later in the year.
A Legacy of Inclusive Technology
Microsoft has long been a leader in accessibility innovation. Over the years, the company has introduced:
- The Adaptive Mouse, which allows for extensive customization.
- A controller-pairing technology that eliminates the need to physically interact with the console.
- An accessibility kit for Surface laptops, making them easier to use for people with disabilities.
Perhaps most notably, six years ago, Microsoft unveiled its groundbreaking Adaptive Controller, designed to support a wide range of accessibility peripherals. The release of the Xbox Adaptive Joystick continues this mission, reaffirming Microsoft’s commitment to making gaming and technology more inclusive for all users.
