Weiser worked closely with Xbox design researcher Scott Wang, who consulted with gamers and disability advocates as the Xbox Adaptive Controller was being developed. Their…
Weiser worked closely with Xbox design researcher Scott Wang, who consulted with gamers and disability advocates as the Xbox Adaptive Controller was being developed. Their feedback helped shape many of the device’s features, including the packaging. Weiser had already decided not to use twist ties, but the gamers Wang spoke with provided other key insights, including one main stipulation — no teeth. They told Wang about using their teeth to open everything from cereal boxes to beer bottles. If nothing else, they said, the box should not require teeth to open.
The gamers also said they’d prefer more simple steps to open the box than fewer but more complicated steps. Being able to access the controller from multiple points was also important. And the gamers identified a feature that became a key part of the package’s design — loops that enable users to easily open the box and remove the controller.
Weiser added a loop on the outside of the specially designed retail shipping box so users could easily remove the sealing tape. Another loop opens the interior box holding the controller, which has a hinged opening rather than a lid that could require two hands to remove.
Yet another loop is integrated into the quick-start guide sitting under the controller. A user who can’t reach into the space under the controller and slide it out (another accessibility feature) can use the loop to remove it. And since the controller has grippy feet to hold it in place for gamers who might play on wheelchair trays or tables, the loop on the guide eliminates the possibility of the controller sticking to the paper tray under it. An additional loop on the paper encircling the controller cables makes them easy to remove.
Other accessibility features include folding the warranty and compliance guide on the long edge to minimize the amount of arm movement required and centering the controller in the box to provide greater stability.
