Updating Arcade2TV-XR Firmware on macOS (Intel & Apple Silicon)

Recommended: Use the Arcade2TV-XR Web Configurator

We now recommend the Arcade2TV-XR Web Configurator for controller remapping and supported firmware upgrades for the Arcade2TV-XR controller, Gen2 wireless dongle, and Haptics PCB:

<https://xgameroom.com/arcade2tv-xr-configurator/>

You can also find this tool from the home page of shop.xgaming.com.

The web configurator runs directly in a supported browser on Mac or Windows PC, lets users select the desired firmware on the web page, and removes the normal need to download separate firmware files or Windows-only software.

If the web configurator is unavailable, or if support specifically asks you to use the local tool, you can still use the downloadable Arcade2TV-XR software and the manual firmware files listed in this article.

Important: Always choose the firmware for the correct component: Arcade2TV-XR controller, Gen2 wireless dongle, or Haptics PCB. Gen1 dongles are not firmware-upgradable.

⚠️ 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 - Arcade2TV-XR Web Configurator (Recommended)

You can now update supported firmware and remap the Arcade2TV-XR directly from your browser on Mac or Windows PC.

Arcade2TV-XR Web Configurator: <https://xgameroom.com/arcade2tv-xr-configurator/>

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.

Cross-Platform Web Configurator Notice

Recommended: Use the current Arcade2TV-XR Web Configurator first. It is cross-platform for Mac and Windows PC and supports the Arcade2TV-XR controller, Gen2 wireless dongle, and Haptics PCB firmware workflows.

If the web configurator is unavailable, use the downloadable software fallback or contact Xgaming Support for help.

Option 2 – Intel Mac with Boot Camp

If you have an Intel-based Mac:

1. Install Windows using Boot Camp
2. Boot directly into Windows (not a virtual machine)
3. 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.

Source article: <https://support.xgaming.com/support/solutions/articles/12000107480-updating-arcade2tv-xr-firmware-on-macos-intel-apple-silicon->