Microsoft is now selling replacement parts for the Xbox controller

Gaming

In an exciting development, Microsoft has recently broadened its self-repair program to include the Xbox controllers, which is a right step that sets it up as a pioneer in the tech industry's ongoing right-to-repair discussion. This move is in sync with an increasing recognition in the tech and gaming industry about the significance of repairability and sustainability.

As a result, a broken controller, no longer under warranty, no longer spells the end for gamers. Microsoft has kicked off the fresh initiative that offers replacement parts for its out-of-warranty controllers - an initiative currently only accessible to US gamers.

At the moment, the Microsoft Store now has six distinct replacement part packages available for Xbox Wireless Controller and Xbox Elite Wireless Controller, giving gamers essential components to address common issues. For example, joystick drift - a common headache among modern controllers - can now be fixed independently by purchasing a $15 replacement joystick instead of splashing out on a $60 brand-new controller. Analog stick replacement could cost you $35, roughly half the price of an entirely new controller, indicating a significant potential saving.

The announcement was made by Brad Rossetti, Xbox Insider Program Lead, on his Twitter account. He confirmed that the program had been active for approximately a week and appealed to the public for feedback on this new venture, hinting at a potential expansion in both depth and reach of this program, depending on how well received it is.

Controllers, colloquially known as gamepads, undoubtedly experience the most wear and tear in a gaming kit, with issues like "stick drift" becoming increasingly prevalent. It is this scenario that Microsoft has targeted, enabling users to keep their controllers operational for extended periods, reducing both the gamers' expenses and the environmental waste footprint.

Replacement components range from buttons, triggers, shells, and analog sticks to complete printed circuit boards. A top case, available in black and white, can be purchased starting from $19.99, while a replacement PCBA and motor assembly for the standard controller would cost up to $34.99. However, fluorescent color enthusiasts might be disappointed as the vibrant color options are currently absent. The replacement parts are now obtainable in North America, and the products include a one-year warranty from Microsoft, in contrast to iFixit's "lifetime" guarantee.

Not only has Microsoft made these replacement parts accessible, but the company is also gamers on how to execute the repairs as well. Microsoft has instructional guides for installing the replacement parts and tutorial videos demonstrating controller repair on the Xbox Support YouTube channel. This move effectively eliminates the speculative guesswork that often leads to more complications.

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Although Microsoft has not yet begun selling the required tools for controller disassembly and repair, this program is a giant leap in the right direction. It's a great move towards sustainability and cost-effectiveness, allowing users to refurbish their devices instead of discarding them and investing in new ones.

Given that a new Xbox Elite Series 2 controller could cost nearly $200, self-repair could save you a considerable amount of money.

In addition to the Xbox controllers, Microsoft has also been selling replacement parts for its range of Surface devices since June, an initiative that mirrors Apple's launch of repair kits in the previous year. Microsoft began building an authorized repair network with major US retailers focusing primarily on Surface device repairs.

By offering users the means to rectify their own issues, Microsoft is possibly striving to stay ahead of potential right-to-repair laws for electronic products, which could keep the company's long-term costs in check. It's a prudent strategy, but most importantly, it's a massive win for gamers and the environment.

Unfortunately, Sony doesn't look like it'll offer a similar cost-saving feature soon, which is a shame.

In the meantime, Xbox fans can check out two new Special Edition controllers. Unfortunately, one of them isn't available for sale.

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