Software giant Microsoft is looking to take a cut out of the market for third-party peripherals for it's Xbox 360 gaming console. The Xbox 360 has a new security system embedded in the console that will block the use of any unlicensed devices with the console. This means that all controllers, steering wheels etc... released for the Xbox 360 will have to be authorised by Microsoft. This information comes from a new contract between Microsoft and peripheral maker Mad Catz.
Interestingly, the Mad Catz contract seems to only permit the manufacturing of wired controllers for the Xbox 360 and not other add-ons such as wireless controllers, memory units or add-on hard drives. It's unclear whether Microsoft will allow third-parties to create a wider variety of peripherals, or if the company will only allow first-party accessories.
Source:
GamesIndustry.biz





