Yesterday, we reported that only Xbox One controllers and accessories will work with the console, but apparently, it also includes…
Yesterday, we reported that only Xbox One controllers and accessories will work with the console, but apparently, it also includes headsets made for the Xbox 360.
It is now confirmed that any headset you might have for your Xbox 360 will be obsolete if you want to move on to the Xbox One, the reason being that the new controller uses a proprietary data port.
This port will replace the chat cable connector you find on Xbox 360 controllers. According to a trusted source feeding information to IGN, this makes the Xbox One incompatible with every single gaming headset made for the Xbox 360. Of course, this includes any Turtle Beach, Astro Gaming, Tritton, and other high-end headsets.
Let’s get down to the nitty gritty. While users will still be able to use the Xbox One’s optical port in order to hear game audio, headsets must use the new proprietary connection type.
This new data port will allegedly support stereo audio, which coule be used to directly feed game audio to the user from the controller. Another scenario would be to boost mono chat audio, the norm in the current-gen, to stereo. As such, players gain the ability to detect where a nearby player is talking from.
Microsoft representatives released the following statement in regards to headsets:
We are working with 3rd party headset manufacturers to create new headsets that will take full advantage of the Xbox One technology. We will share more details in the future.
Proprietary hardware is never fun, as Microsoft will have greater control over the accessory market. Prices for new headsets could be jacked up, and with Microsoft basically imposing more of its will, manufacturers must adhere to it, therefore creating less variety.
Still, the audio improvements seem worth the investment, so it remains to be seen exactly what headsets will be released for the Xbox One.
Source: IGN