Microsoft seems to be developing a brand-new, ultra-compact wireless controller designed specifically for Xbox Cloud Gaming. The first images of the device appeared online after they were found in documents from Anatel, Brazil’s telecommunications agency, and later shared by Tecnoblog.
The controller appears to focus heavily on portability, using a much smaller design compared to standard Xbox controllers. However, even with the reduced size, the controller still keeps the classic Xbox layout, including the offset analog sticks, D-pad, face buttons, triggers, bumpers, and the modern Share button.
The leaked photos also show simple black and white models with a flatter design that looks easier to carry around, while small grip bumps at the bottom help make it more comfortable to hold despite the compact body.
The biggest feature of the new controller is its ability to connect directly to Xbox Cloud Gaming servers through Wi-Fi, instead of relying only on a console, phone, or PC as the main host device. Microsoft reportedly wants to reduce latency and improve cloud gaming performance with this controller.
Inside, the controller is said to use a Realtek RTL8730E chipset with dual ARM Cortex-A7 cores running at 1.2 GHz. In terms of connectivity, it supports Wi-Fi 6 on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, along with Bluetooth 5.3 for normal wireless pairing. The controller also comes with a built-in 500 mAh rechargeable battery, moving away from Xbox’s usual AA batteries used in standard controllers. A USB-C port is placed on the top for charging, next to a pairing button and LED status lights.
At the time of writing, Xbox has not commented on the leaked controller, so we should still take this with a grain of salt. As more information becomes available, we’ll make sure to let you know here at GameObserver.
