In recognition of Global Accessibility Awareness Day today, Microsoft has announced a slew of accessibility-related updates to the Xbox ecosystem to make the platform more inclusive for users with disabilities. This includes the ability to filter games by accessibility need as well as updated accessibility settings in the Xbox app for PC devices.
The Xbox webstore now includes accessibility filters
On Xbox’s webstore, users now have the ability to apply accessibility filters in their search for console, PC and cloud games. As Engadget reported, there are 20 filters to choose from, including gameplay settings — such as the ability to pause certain games — as well as audio, visual and input features.
Users also have the ability to filter games by languages, with over 17 supported languages to choose from.
Accessibility upgrades include the ability to turn off background images and animations
Besides adding accessibility filters, Microsoft has also rolled out updated settings on the Xbox app for PC, including the ability to turn off background images and animations. As noted by Microsoft in its announcement, “these settings are designed to help players reduce visual components that could cause disruption, confusion, or irritation.”
In terms of accessibility, these updates can make it easier for users with low vision or users who might have difficulty processing an overload of information on their screens.
Elsewhere on the Xbox ecosystem, Microsoft also revamped Xbox’s accessibility support pages. The pages now cover more than 150 accessibility controls across PC and console. Recent additions include how to adjust the thumbstick settings in the Xbox Accessories app. The support pages are accessible on both console and Windows devices.
These much-needed updates to Xbox come on the heels of other accessibility upgrades that Microsoft has made over the years to the gaming platform. In 2021, Xbox launched the Microsoft Game Accessibility Testing program to allow developers to user test the accessibility of their games among players with disabilities.