Microsoft adding Xbox Wireless support to future PCs
August 17, 2016 | 13:10
Companies: #lenovo #microsoft
Microsoft has announced that it is doubling down on PC gaming with the integration of Xbox Wireless connectivity in future desktops and laptops.
While Microsoft's Xbox gamepads have long been the device of choice for the discerning PC gamer looking to play titles ill-suited to a keyboard and mouse, their use is far from straightforward. The wireless models typically require a proprietary USB dongle to operate, rather than using a more open connectivity standard such as Bluetooth for which hardware is often already integrated. That, however, is coming to a close: Microsoft has convinced hardware makers to integrate Xbox Wireless connectivity directly into their machines.
'Today, we’re continuing to expand the way gamers can connect their Xbox One accessories to their PC by announcing the first PC with integrated Xbox Wireless — the Lenovo IdeaCentre Y710 Cube,' Microsoft's Will Tuttle posted late last night. 'With built-in Xbox Wireless, this PC supports all Xbox One wireless accessories — such as the Xbox Wireless Controller — straight out of the box, without needing any additional adapters or wires.
'While this is the first partner device to have built-in Xbox Wireless support, it won’t be the last. We are currently working with other partners such as Astro, PDP, Turtle Beach, and many more. Going forward, you should expect to see both new PCs and new accessories that support Xbox Wireless as we create new ways for our fans to play seamlessly across devices.'
The partnerships come shortly after the launch of a redesigned Xbox One Wireless Controller which includes a Bluetooth radio for use with non-Xbox hardware sans-dongle, and suggest coverage of a wide range of peripherals from first- and third-party pads to specialist controllers and audio hardware. Initially the integration will, as with the Lenovo IdeaCentre Y710, take the form of building the existing USB-connected Xbox Wireless Adapter into the PC chassis; in the future, Microsoft has pledged, the Xbox Wireless radio will be integrated directly into PC motherboards.
While Microsoft's Xbox gamepads have long been the device of choice for the discerning PC gamer looking to play titles ill-suited to a keyboard and mouse, their use is far from straightforward. The wireless models typically require a proprietary USB dongle to operate, rather than using a more open connectivity standard such as Bluetooth for which hardware is often already integrated. That, however, is coming to a close: Microsoft has convinced hardware makers to integrate Xbox Wireless connectivity directly into their machines.
'Today, we’re continuing to expand the way gamers can connect their Xbox One accessories to their PC by announcing the first PC with integrated Xbox Wireless — the Lenovo IdeaCentre Y710 Cube,' Microsoft's Will Tuttle posted late last night. 'With built-in Xbox Wireless, this PC supports all Xbox One wireless accessories — such as the Xbox Wireless Controller — straight out of the box, without needing any additional adapters or wires.
'While this is the first partner device to have built-in Xbox Wireless support, it won’t be the last. We are currently working with other partners such as Astro, PDP, Turtle Beach, and many more. Going forward, you should expect to see both new PCs and new accessories that support Xbox Wireless as we create new ways for our fans to play seamlessly across devices.'
The partnerships come shortly after the launch of a redesigned Xbox One Wireless Controller which includes a Bluetooth radio for use with non-Xbox hardware sans-dongle, and suggest coverage of a wide range of peripherals from first- and third-party pads to specialist controllers and audio hardware. Initially the integration will, as with the Lenovo IdeaCentre Y710, take the form of building the existing USB-connected Xbox Wireless Adapter into the PC chassis; in the future, Microsoft has pledged, the Xbox Wireless radio will be integrated directly into PC motherboards.
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