USB keyboards are also supported, but only for inputting text and navigating the dashboard; additionally, the number pad and hotkeys are non-functional.

The Play & Charge Kit will also automatically sync the controller to a Wireless Gaming Receiver when both are plugged into a Windows computer.

Alongside the release of the Xbox 360 S in June 2010, Microsoft started shipping a "transforming d-pad controller" with an improved Play & Charge Kit and an upgraded rechargeable battery pack.

Alongside the release of the Xbox 360 S in June 2010, Microsoft started shipping an improved Quick Charge Kit with an upgraded rechargeable battery pack.

[citation needed] USB HID-compliant keyboards can be plugged directly into the console to perform the same function.There are two official versions of the Xbox 360 Universal Media Remote and a number of unofficial ones.

Released in November 2006, the force feedback steering wheel controller includes the standard gamepad buttons and floor-mounted accelerator and brake pedals.

Although the wheel is capable of running off the rechargeable battery pack, use of the force feedback and active resistance features requires an external AC adapter.

Box Office Smash come bundled with 4 special wireless controllers called Big Button Pads, which resemble game show buzzers.

The large buzzer button also functions as a four-way directional pad, which helps to navigate the Xbox 360 dashboard menu.

The Ace Edge package was officially released only in North America and Japan.Kinect (codename "Project Natal") is a "controller-free gaming and entertainment experience" produced by Microsoft for the Xbox 360.

Nyko has released a 'Zoom' attachment for the Kinect camera that allows people to use the system without having very large open spaces in their living rooms.

The PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 versions of the uDraw was a commercial failure and was discontinued in February 2012, THQ would eventually file for bankruptcy the following year.

The HD DVD player also features two extra USB ports on the rear, a Universal Media Remote, as well as a clip for attaching the wireless network adapter.

Additionally, many standard mobile phone hands-free kits which feature 2.5 mm connectors will also function as headsets, although this is not officially supported.

The headset features a built-in rechargeable battery, which lasts up to 8 hours, and comes with a USB charger and an instruction manual.

In late 2011, Microsoft replaced the Wireless Headset with a completely redesigned model, which is glossy black, designed to more closely resemble Xbox 360 S consoles, and also capable of connection to Bluetooth devices such as mobile phones and computers.

[19] The Xbox Live Vision camera was announced at E3 2006 and was released in North America on September 19, 2006, and Europe and Asia on October 2, 2006 (November 2, 2006, in Japan).

[39] Initially, 250 GB hard drives were only available through third-party manufacturers or through the purchase of a special-edition Xbox 360 console bundle,[40] but from 2010, it was being sold as a separate accessory in Japan,[41] North America,[42] and the UK.

Depending on the market, the hard drive comes preloaded with content, such as videos and Xbox Live Arcade games or demos.

Use of this device to transfer saved game files for the purpose of unlocking achievements is prohibited by Microsoft in the Xbox Live Terms of Service agreement.

[51] The Xbox 360 can read USB storage devices such as thumb drives, Zunes, iPods (except iPod Touch and iPhone), MP3 players, PSPs, and hard drives, however an Optional Media Update is required to play music and other files from certain music players, this is available from the Xbox Live Marketplace.

On March 26, 2010, Microsoft announced a system update allowing the use of standard USB flash drives to store game profiles, saves, demos, and other Xbox 360 content would be coming on April 6.

He also announced that Microsoft will be partnering with SanDisk to create Xbox 360 branded USB flash drives that will come pre-configured for use right out of the box.

The unit also powers on and off automatically with the system and the Intercooler's small size fit in tight spaces like entertainment centers with the 360 placed in either horizontal or vertical orientation.

Many consumers, as well as the press, claim it scorches their consoles, "steals" power from the system, and even causes the red ring of death,[56] which the device may have been used to avoid.

However, Nyko later released the Intercooler EX which has a new AC adaptor made of metal and therefore solves the problem with power "stealing", scorching of the console, and the plug falling off.

Instead of clipping on to the back like the Cooler King or Intercooler, the fan is situated in a base extension that the console can sit on only in the upright position.

Microsoft distributed three promotional faceplates, one for those present at the Electronic Entertainment Expo 2005 unveiling, one for those at the Zero Hour Xbox 360 launch event, and one for VIP X05 attendees.

While faceplates mostly exist for aesthetic reasons they also direct airflow, deter dust and particles, and protect the disc tray and memory slots.

Encryption mechanisms available when using both versions were initially limited to WEP and WPA, with WPA2 support added on October 28, 2009, via a system software update.