Phillips CD-i USB to CD-i
Image: Robert Dale Smith

The software engineer Robert Dale Smith has revealed a new USB 2 CD-i solution, which will allow users to take advantage of a wide variety of USB controllers, keyboards, and mice for the Phillips CD-i.

This will likely be welcome news to CD-i collectors, as it means they won't have to use the janky controllers that Philips designed back in the 90s, most notably the infamous paddle remote.

According to Smith, the adapter converts compatible controllers and keyboards to appear to the machine as the standard 3-button controller, whereas USB mice will function similarly to their CD-i counterparts.

Phillips CD-i
The paddle controller in all its glory! — Image: Evan-Amos/Wikimedia Commons

The adapter will also feature an integrated CD-i splitter, meaning that on some newer models you'll be able to connect two controllers with the use of a USB hub. Meanwhile, older models will work in reverse using an external splitter provided you have a secondary rear controller input.

Compatible controllers for the adapter include:

  • Any USB controller with X-Input mode
  • 8BitDo PCE 2.4g USB Receiver
  • 8BitDo USB Wireless Adapters (Red/Black/Gray)
  • Xbox (OG/360/One/Series)
  • PS Classic USB Controller
  • PS4 DualShock 4 Wired
  • PS5 DualSense Wired
  • Sega AstroCity Mini USB Controller

It costs $60 and pre-orders are now open, with the adapters expected to ship in January 2023. Something worth noting is that this isn't the only controller solution available for the CD-i. There's also the CD-i Bluetooth, which lets you play with standard Bluetooth controllers, as well as several more involved solutions. You can check out the history of the Philips CD-i elsewhere on our site if you want to learn more about the machine.

Do you collect for Philips CD-i? Let us know in the comments!

[source controlleradapter.com, via twitter.com]