Microsoft lets partners release Xbox-branded smartphone accessories accessoires

Microsoft will let companies it partners release game accessories for smartphones with an Xbox logo on them. That is necessary, now that the release of game streaming service xCloud is coming, the company says.

This allows hardware companies to include accessories for smartphones in the Designed for Xbox program, Microsoft reports. The first of these is a phone holder that connects to Moga’s Xbox Wireless Controller. More such accessories should be released in the near future, including controllers that are optimized for the use of smartphones.

Microsoft thinks that step is necessary because of the upcoming release of Project xCloud, its game streaming service. A test with that will start this month in the US, UK and South Korea. That only happens on Android. In addition, the Xbox Wireless Controller also works on iPhones and iPads with the upgrade to iOS 13 since last month. Microsoft would also like to certify accessories for this.

The company has not made any statements about other concrete products for smart phones within the Designed for Xbox program. Microsoft does say it is working with 8bitDo, Gamevice, HORI, PowerA and Razer to develop accessories for smartphones.