⚠️ IMPORTANT – Dongle Version & Firmware Compatibility
Before updating firmware, confirm which wireless dongle you have.
Updating the wrong dongle firmware can permanently disable the device.
Gen1 Dongle (Original / Stock Dongle)
- This is the dongle that came with your original Arcade2TV-XR / Tankstick VR purchase.
- It is included with standard bundles.
- It is NOT firmware upgradable.
❌ Do NOT attempt to install Gen2 dongle firmware (v3.xx) onto a Gen1 dongle.
Doing so will permanently disable the dongle.
Gen2 Dongle (Purchased Separately / Haptics Kit Included)
- Purchased separately as an upgrade
- Included with the X-Force Haptics Kit
- Supports firmware upgrades
- Required for v3.62 / v3.64 controller firmware systems
Only Gen2 dongles can be updated using the firmware tool.
Quick Identification Rule
If your dongle came with your original Arcade2TV-XR bundle → You have Gen1
If you purchased a wireless upgrade or Haptics Kit → You have Gen2
When in doubt, contact support before upgrading.
Updating Arcade2TV-XR Firmware on macOS (Intel & Apple Silicon)
If you’re using a Mac and need to update your Arcade2TV-XR / Tankstick VR firmware, follow the options below.
Option 1 – Web Firmware Updater (Recommended for Mac Users)
You can now update controller firmware directly from your browser.
Web Firmware Updater (Mac Compatible):
https://shop.xgaming.com/pages/arcade2tv-xr-web-firmware-updater-mac
Supported:
✅ Arcade2TV-XR / Tankstick VR controller firmware
✅ macOS (Intel & Apple Silicon – M1, M2, M3)
✅ No Windows installation required
Not Supported:
❌ Gen1 dongle firmware (Gen1 cannot be upgraded)
Important:
- Connect directly via USB (USB hub works).
- Do NOT unplug during upgrade.
Beta Notice
The web firmware updater is currently in beta.
While stable for most users, occasional bugs may occur.
We welcome feedback. If you encounter any issues, please contact support with your Mac model and browser version.
Option 2 – Intel Mac with Boot Camp
If you have an Intel-based Mac:
- Install Windows using Boot Camp
- Boot directly into Windows (not a virtual machine)
- Run the Windows firmware tool
This method works because Windows has direct USB access.
Not Supported
The following will NOT work for firmware upgrades:
- Parallels on M1 / M2 / M3
- VMware on Apple Silicon
- Crossover / Wine
- Any virtual Windows environment on Apple Silicon
If the tool says “No device found” inside a VM, this is expected.
Summary
Gen1 dongle → Never upgrade firmware
Gen2 dongle → Upgrade only when required
Mac users → Use Web Firmware Updater
Intel Mac → Boot Camp works
No computer → Pre-flashed board available
If unsure, contact Xgaming Support before updating.