Microsoft today revealed how it designed the packaging for its Xbox Adaptive Controller to be as accessible as the product itself.

“Our packaging is a series of moments that create a unique customer experience,” Microsoft’s Kevin Marshall and Mark Weiser explain in a new post to the Xbox Wire blog. “These moments can manifest themselves in many ways. Physical touchpoints, visual or material cues and structural elements are designed to lead the customer through a logical and seamless unboxing. With the Xbox Adaptive Controller, we knew we had to make the packaging accessible for gamers with limited mobility. That required us to re-think some things about how we package our products, including what type of moments would be most meaningful. It was critically important that we incorporate accessibility into the packaging design and unboxing experience. The out-of-box experience is the first thing customers encounter when they purchase our products and it’s important that we get that right.”

According to the pair, Microsoft designed the Xbox Adaptive Controller packaging in a “no teeth” manner, meaning that customers with limited mobility wouldn’t have to revert to using their teeth to tear through it, as they often have to do with traditional packaging. The firm also ensured that there would be no cuts due to twist ties, zip cords, or sharp-edged paper. Instead, the package unfolds to reveal the product.

“It was through continued engagement with the disability community and research groups that we grew our understanding of what accessible packaging could include,” they explain. “Every time we approach packaging in a new way, we strive to learn as much as we can and leverage those insights across all our work. The Xbox Adaptive Controller required us to think in depth about accessibility in packaging, and we believe it is a powerful milestone on our accessibility journey.”

The Xbox Adaptive Controller is now available for pre-order and will cost $99.99 when it ships to customers in September. You can learn more about this accessible game controller from the Microsoft website.

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