InterAct Accessories has announced a licensing agreement with Microsoft confirming its plans to manufacture and distribute third-party peripherals for the Xbox console. Research and development for its upcoming line of Xbox peripherals is already under way, and the company expects to show its products at the upcoming E3 show in Los Angeles. Its line of Xbox products will include basic controllers, arcade sticks, and steering wheels, among others.

　　"Microsoft will raise the bar for the gaming industry with the introduction of its console," said Todd Hays, president and founder of InterAct. "The anticipation of the Xbox, a cutting-edge product that allows InterAct to stretch its product development capabilities, has invigorated us."

　　"InterAct is a key player in the video game peripheral business and will help drive the success of the Xbox," said Scott Loomis, Xbox third-party peripheral program manager. "Our primary goal is to work closely with InterAct to ensure that a full line of compatible accessories are available to enhance the Xbox user experience."

　　The Microsoft Xbox will launch in North America in the fall.