Microsoft Launches New Adaptive Thumbstick Toppers For XBOX Design Lab

Recently, there has been a string of new looks at upcoming Xbox peripherals. Online, leaks for the next-generation Xbox Elite 3 Controller surfaced online which included scroll wheels on the gamepad. Additionally, a separate controller was found on the internet from Xbox as well. This one was a Wi-Fi 6 controller that was said to be a cloud streaming-focused controller. 

Of course, Microsoft does more in other ways when it comes to gaming peripherals. For years, XBOX has been recognized for its efforts in accessibility. In 2024, we saw this with the Proteus peripheral that shipped offering disabled users new comfortable ways to play. The following year in 2025 featured the ‘Xbox Adaptive Joystick’ as well.

Now this week, Microsoft returns with new accessories to accommodate affected players. For Global Accessibility Awareness Day, new Adaptive Thumbstick Toppers were released on XBOX Design Lab. These new items consist of the Plate, Dome, Stick, Pull, Sphere, Goal Post, and Custom topper options. This is a free service where users can 3D print these new accessories.

“As we shared during Microsoft’s Ability Summit, we’re continuing our commitment to customizable control solutions. Based on player feedback, we’ve improved the attachment design so the toppers better endure higher force use and stay securely in place during gameplay. We’re also expanding the lineup with a new, highly requested option: the Goal Post shape, giving players even more ways to tailor their setup,” XBOX lead hardware and platform gaming accessibility lead Kaitlyn Jones says.

“To explore the updated topper program, head to XBOX Design Lab, choose the controller you’d like to design a topper for, and select from seven available shapes, including the new Goal Post shape. From there, you can customize the width and height that work best for you and download a 3D printable file, at no charge, that you can use to print the topper for your compatible controllers. No need to buy a controller to download the file, you just need access to a 3-D printer or printing service.”

Do you plan to 3D print any of these new adaptive thumbstick toppers?

Source: XBOX Wire