Microsoft Releases Eco-Friendly Xbox Controller for Earth Day

Microsoft has announced the launch of the “Remix Special Edition” Xbox controller, which is partially made from recycled plastic, to coincide with Earth Day celebrations.

The controller, consisting of 33% recycled plastic, utilizes post-consumer recycled resins with regrind materials, such as leftover Xbox One generation controller parts, automotive headlight covers, plastic water jugs, and CDs.

Unique Designs with an Environmental Purpose

The use of recycled materials not only offers an ecological advantage but also gives each controller a one-of-a-kind design.

The color and particle mix for each controller is unique, creating a visually appealing and environmentally friendly product.

In addition to the recycled materials, the Remix Special Edition controller includes an Xbox Rechargeable Battery Pack, reducing the need for disposable batteries.

Earth-Tone Colors and Topographic Textures

Inspired by the natural landscapes and physical world, the Remix Special Edition controller features earth-tone colors and subtle variations, with swirls and markings.

The bright green Xbox button, D-pad, and front case color are inspired by lichen found in the Pacific Northwest Forest.

The bumpers, triggers, and side grip areas boast a topographic texture pattern, reflecting the Earth’s dynamic landscape.

Compatibility and Customization

The Remix Special Edition controller is compatible with Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and Windows 10/11, offering Bluetooth technology for wireless gaming on PC and mobile devices. 

Players can customize button mapping with the Xbox Accessories app and use a 3.5mm stereo headset jack for online chatting and sharing gaming highlights.

Price and Availability

Retailing at $84.99, the Remix Special Edition controller will be available worldwide on April 18. 

Microsoft aims to bring fans along on their journey towards greater sustainability across the Xbox product portfolio, with more information available on the Xbox Sustainability Hub.

The Remix Special Edition controller is compatible with Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and Windows 10/11, offering Bluetooth technology for wireless gaming on PC and mobile devices. 

Microsoft’s Sustainability Goals

Earlier this year, Xbox announced its commitment to reducing its environmental impact in order to help Microsoft achieve its goal of becoming a carbon-negative, water-positive, and zero-waste company by 2030.

To do this, the company is rethinking how its products are designed, built, distributed, and used.

Ongoing Efforts and Collaborations

In March, Xbox provided an update on its sustainability initiatives across hardware, software, waste reduction, and collective action.

The company is continuously exploring innovative ways to learn and improve its measures while collaborating with industry partners and game developers.

It remains accountable for carbon emissions from both the production and distribution of its products, as well as the emissions generated by their use in consumers’ homes.

Designing hardware and software for greater efficiency and optimization for renewable energy can make a significant impact.

Carbon-Aware Game Downloads and Updates

Xbox is the first gaming console to offer carbon-aware game downloads and updates, which means reducing its carbon footprint by optimizing updates and downloads to run when the console can use the most renewable energy.

Windows Update introduced carbon-aware updates for Windows 11 PCs last year, and now Xbox consoles are following suit.

When an Xbox console is plugged in and connected to the internet, and regional carbon intensity data is available, updates will be scheduled during times when the console can use the most renewable energy in the local energy grid.

This reduces fossil fuel dependency, CO2 emissions, and can potentially save consumers money.

Energy-Saving Settings

Xbox Series X|S consoles will now automatically update to the Shutdown (energy-saving) power option for Xbox Insiders.

This one-time update reduces power consumption while the console is off without affecting performance, gameplay, or the ability to receive overnight updates.

Remote features are supported while the console is powered on, but remote wake is not supported while the console is shut down. Users can adjust their settings at any time.

Active Hours and Sleep

Another energy setting update for Xbox Insiders is the new “Active Hours” setting. Users who select the Sleep power option can now adjust their console’s active hours.

The Xbox will boot quickly and be available for remote wake during active hours. Once the active hours are over, the console will fully shut down and draw significantly less power.

Xbox Series X|S active hours will be automatically enabled and scheduled based on times when the console was previously used.

Xbox One consoles will have the option to configure their active hours, which will default to “always active” unless changed.

In conclusion, Microsoft’s release of the eco-friendly Remix Special Edition Xbox controller for Earth Day exemplifies the company’s dedication to sustainability and reducing its environmental impact.

This innovative controller, made of 33% recycled plastic, demonstrates how the company is rethinking the design, production, and distribution of its products.

Furthermore, Xbox’s ongoing sustainability initiatives, such as carbon-aware game downloads, updates, energy-saving settings, and active hours, showcase its commitment to creating a greener gaming experience for consumers.

By offering environmentally conscious products and features, Microsoft is not only promoting a sustainable future but also inspiring other companies to follow suit in their journey towards a more eco-friendly world.