Microsoft has confirmed that the Xbox One’s Headset Adapter won’t appear on the market until 2014. The peripheral, which will allow existing Xbox 360 headsets to be compatible with the company’s next-gen hardware, will also be required for the use of third-party devices from manufacturers such as Turtle Beach.
In a statement provided to CVG, the tech company elaborated on Microsoft’s mandatory adapter.
“Turtle Beach expects to launch the XO FOUR and XO SEVEN headsets for the Xbox One console in the first quarter of 2014. The Xbox One Headset Adapter, being built by Microsoft and provided to Turtle Beach for inclusion with new gaming headsets, will not be available until early 2014.”
In response to the delay, Microsoft stated that it plans to work closely with developers such as Turtle Beach to create audio accessories that will take “full advantage of the Xbox One technology.” Much like its predecessor, we understand that the Xbox One will come bundled with an entry level headset from the get-go next month. Still, the fact that the console won’t support dedicated third-party accessories until 2014 will be frustrating to early adopters of the hardware.
At this time, it’s still unclear as to how much the Headset Adapter will cost or even when it will release. With that in mind, it appears that the device will be available within Q1 of 2014. As a means for comparison, Sony has confirmed that third-party headsets such as the PS Pulse Elite will not work at launch either. However, the company plans to issue a firmware update shortly after launch that will implement support for third-party and Bluetooth audio devices.
Tell us, what are your thoughts on Microsoft’s handling of third-party headsets? Are you disappointed that the Xbox One won’t support devices such as the Turtle Beach line until 2014? Let us know below.
