A new Xbox controller is coming and it’s not what you’d expect

Microsoft apparently has plans for a new Xbox controller. But this one seems different from what we’ve come to know from the brand. Rather than being a typical refresh, a Tecnoblog report found that Microsoft is working on a compact controller that could be focused on the Xbox Cloud Gaming.

It’s not just the design that’s getting a touch-up, as the leak documents also suggest improved connectivity for a cloud-first setup.

What will the new Xbox controller look like?

Images that were revealed in the leak show a more compact-looking controller that appears smaller than the traditional Xbox Wireless Controller. The report even compared its general shape to other gamepads such as the HyperX Clutch Tanto and 8BitDo SN30 Pro, which makes sense for a controller aimed at cloud play rather than a full console setup.

Despite the smaller design, the controller reportedly includes the standard Xbox-style buttons, bumpers, and triggers. Images also show a USB-C port at the top, along with a mysterious button that may be used for pairing or switching modes. There also appears to be an area for indicator lights, possibly to show whether the controller is connected for traditional Xbox use or cloud gaming.

How connectivity is getting enhanced

One of the big upgrades is to the connectivity. The documentation lists the controller with support for both Bluetooth and WiFi 6, with the latter restricted to a 20MHz bandwidth. It reportedly uses Realtek’s RTL8730E chip, which includes two ARM Cortex-A7 cores clocked at 1.2GHz. That Wi-Fi support could be important if Microsoft wants lower-latency cloud gaming connections or smoother switching between local and cloud modes. The controller also has an internal rechargeable 500mAh battery, which is a notable change from Microsoft’s long-standing reliance on AA batteries for its standard Xbox controllers.

Two colors, but no launch date

Microsoft reportedly plans to offer the controller in at least two colors, with Tecnoblog showing both black and white versions. There is no confirmed launch date, and the device has not yet appeared in FCC filings, which suggests a global release may still be a while away.