Microsoft Seemingly Removing the Expansion Port from New Xbox Controllers

Microsoft recently unveiled a limited-edition Xbox Wireless Controller alongside a matching headset just ahead of Forza Horizon 6 launch hype. Now that the controller is finally reaching customers, one Reddit user named “SpeedKomodo” appears to have spotted something Microsoft never actually announced publicly.

Microsoft may be quietly removing a useful Xbox controller feature

According to the Reddit post, the new Forza Horizon 6 controller seemingly ships without the classic Xbox expansion port found underneath older controllers. Instead of the usual connector sitting next to the 3.5mm headphone jack, the controller reportedly has a sealed plastic cover in its place.

Image credit: Reddit/u/SpeedKomodo

For those unaware, the expansion port has existed on Xbox controllers for years. It mainly allowed accessories like chatpads, headset adapters, and certain older audio peripherals to directly connect to the controller itself.

In everyday use, most players probably will not even notice the missing port. Standard wired headsets still work through the 3.5mm jack, while wireless accessories and USB-C connectivity remain unaffected. That being said, players still using older Xbox accessories could suddenly find some hardware becoming useless on newer controller revisions.

Microsoft hasn’t officially confirmed removing the expansion port from Xbox controllers so far. However, it seems the change only affects the newer production batches or select special editions right now.

As of now, it remains unclear whether Microsoft plans to phase the expansion port out completely across future Microsoft Xbox controllers or if this is limited to specific editions only. Interestingly, some older limited-edition controllers, including the DOOM: The Dark Ages model, reportedly still include the port for now.

via: GameSpot