Why did Microsoft choose custom USB controller ports?
Microsoft chose custom shaped USB ports for numerous reasons, the primary being because less-informed consumers would be tempted to plug other USB peripherals such as scanners/webcams into the Xbox. Additionally, the plug for normal USB ports is too easy to accidentally detach, & would result in many gamers ripping their controller plugs out of the USB ports during intense gaming sessions. Furthermore, a custom USB port ensures that all Xbox controllers are pre-approved by Microsoft, to ensure that each 3rd party controller is bug-free, has its quality match a certain level & is 100% compatible with Xbox. Lastly, normal USB doesn’t provide the amount of power required to supply the Xbox controller & its built-in force feedback feature.
