Microsoft appears to be phasing out the proprietary expansion port on its Xbox Wireless Controllers, a move that signals the end for beloved accessories like the Chatpad. This subtle but significant change is being observed across new controller releases and official product listings. The expansion port has been a staple of Xbox controllers since the Xbox 360 era.
Xbox Controllers Quietly Drop Underused Accessory Port
The latest refresh of Xbox controllers is reportedly shipping without the dedicated accessory expansion port, a feature that has been present for generations. This change impacts a wide range of Xbox accessories, most notably the Chatpad, which provided a physical keyboard for quick in-game communication. The developer, Microsoft, has not made an official announcement regarding this discontinuation.
Several recent observations collectively suggest the expansion port’s removal. Social media reports indicate that a new Forza Horizon 6 gamepad lacks the connection point, with the space visibly plugged. Furthermore, leaked images of the upcoming Xbox Elite Controller Series 3 also show no signs of the port. Adding to these signs, the official Xbox Wireless Controller store page was updated in April with a line stating, “Not all versions of this controller include an expansion port”. This specific disclaimer was not present in archived versions of the page from late March 2026.
Impact on Players and the Legacy of the Chatpad
For many players, the removal of the expansion port means the end of an era for certain unique accessories. The Chatpad, introduced with the Xbox 360 and popular during the Xbox One generation, allowed for swift text entry and on-the-fly settings adjustments. It also offered a preferred tactile feel for many users due to its added weight and ergonomic fit. Microsoft also produced a Stereo Headset Adapter for the Xbox One that utilized this port, alongside various charging accessories. The Chatpad itself was quietly discontinued around 2019, despite its popularity.
The apparent discontinuation of the expansion port is a surprising development, given Xbox’s history of hardware innovation. Microsoft has previously experimented with unique consumer hardware, including the Kinect sensor and, more recently, has become a leader in accessibility with its Adaptive Controller. While the inclusion of a 3.5mm jack in controllers has reduced the need for a dedicated headset adapter, and the Xbox app offers a keyboard function, the expansion port represented a foundation for adding diverse and unique functionalities. Its removal could signal a step back from developing innovative, exclusive gaming accessories.
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