Xbox blocking unauthorized accessories with error 0x82d60002

In an apparent policy change, Microsoft has begun blocking “unauthorized” accessories, like controllers and adapters, from use with Xbox consoles. Users who connect an unlicensed third-party device to their Xbox are given two weeks to continue using it before it’s blocked from use completely.

Xbox users who have unofficial accessories started reporting an error code of 0x82d60002 after a recent Xbox update. Windows Central reported that the message stated an accessory connected was not approved and will be banned from future use. “Using unauthorized accessories compromises your gaming experience,” the error message reads.

A Microsoft spokesperson responded to Polygon’s request for a comment. He pointed Polygon towards the Microsoft support pages that address the error codes of 0x82d60002 or 0x82d60003. “This means that one of the accessories you’re trying to connect was not manufactured by Microsoft or another licensed Xbox hardware partner,” the pages explain. “From the moment you connect an unauthorized accessory and receive error code 0x82d60002, you’ll have two weeks to use the accessory, after which time it will then be blocked from use with the console. At that time, you’ll receive error code 0x82d60003. We encourage you to contact the store or manufacturer where you obtained the accessory to get help with returning it.”

Microsoft has not confirmed that these error messages represent a new Xbox policy, but there were no online references before the middle of October. Brook Gaming released an update on Oct. 20. posted on X (formerly known as Twitter) to warn users that they may “encounter functional disruptions in the near future” with their products, when used on Xbox consoles running the latest firmware, which was released on Oct. 16.

Brook Gaming specializes in making converters that allow you to use a wide range of controllers with various platforms — including using PlayStation controllers with Xbox consoles, for example. Its products are popular with the fighting game community, for whom it’s important to be able to use expensive, customized fighting sticks across different platforms.

In racing games too, fans love to have expensive and elaborate steering wheel setups. Gran Turismo 7PlayStation Forza MotorsportOn Xbox for instance. Unlicensed adapters provide the only way to do this, but Microsoft’s move appears to cut that avenue off for Xbox owners.

Some other devices that may be affected include third-party cheat devices and cheap controllers. Cronus Zen, for example, is a device which can automate inputs using scripts, macros, and cross compatibility.

Officially licensed products from manufacturers like Razer, Thrustmaster, and Logitech that are part of the Designed for Xbox program won’t be affected by the new error messages. Typically, Microsoft only licences wired accessories, and is cautious about giving third-party manufacturers access to Xbox’s custom wireless protocol for security reasons. But Windows Central reports that, according to its sources, Microsoft is on the verge of opening up a new approval process for wireless accessories from third parties — and the block on unauthorized accessories is a consequence of this, intended to combat possible exploits.

Whatever the case, there’ll soon be a lot of useless plastic and circuitry out there, and a lot of frustrated fighting-game and racing-game fans.