TL;DR
Leaked images from regulatory filings reveal the Xbox Elite 3 controller, showcasing new buttons, scroll wheels, and a cloud mode switch. The controller’s official release date remains unconfirmed, but the leaks suggest an imminent announcement.
Images of the upcoming Xbox Elite 3 controller have been leaked through regulatory filings, revealing new design features, buttons, and functionality that could enhance gaming experience and cloud connectivity.
The leaked images, published by Tecnoblog and confirmed by The Verge, show the successor to the Elite 2 controller with a more refined design. Notably, it features an interchangeable D-Pad, paddles, and two new mysterious buttons. The controller also includes two scroll wheels at the bottom, which may serve for controller adjustments or new input methods, possibly for complex simulation games like Microsoft Flight Simulator.
A key addition is a new pair button that allows users to switch between local mode and cloud mode, potentially reducing latency during Xbox Cloud Gaming sessions. Additionally, the controller appears to adopt a smaller, removable rechargeable battery, with a capacity of 1,528mAh, down from the Elite 2’s 2,050mAh, indicating a move toward more modular hardware.
The leaks originate from filings with Brazil’s Anatel regulator, suggesting that Microsoft is close to finalizing the design, though an official release date has not been announced. The timing of the leaks, coupled with the upcoming Xbox showcase in June, hints that an official reveal could occur soon.
Why It Matters
This leak is significant because it provides the first detailed look at the next-generation Xbox Elite controller, which is expected to offer enhanced customization, connectivity, and performance features. The addition of a cloud mode switch indicates a focus on improving cloud gaming experiences, aligning with Microsoft’s broader strategy to expand Xbox Game Pass and cloud services. For gamers, these updates could translate into more precise control options and reduced latency, especially in competitive or simulation gaming.
Xbox Wireless Gaming Controller | Elite Series 2 | Black | Xbox, PC, and Android | Adjustable Thumbsticks | Trigger Locks
PLAY LIKE A PRO — Designed for competitive gamers, the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 delivers precision,…
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Background
The Xbox Elite series has been a flagship line for high-end controllers, known for customization and premium features. The Elite 2, released in 2019, set a high standard, but Microsoft has kept details about the Elite 3 under wraps. Prior to this leak, there were rumors of new controllers in development, but no official images or specifications had been available. The leak from Anatel follows a smaller Xbox Cloud Gaming controller leak earlier the same day, indicating a possible broader update to Xbox hardware lineup in the near future.
“The leaked images show the successor to the Elite 2 controller with a more refined design, featuring new buttons and functionality aimed at enhancing gaming and cloud connectivity.”
— Tom Warren, The Verge
“The images reveal an Xbox Elite 3 controller with an interchangeable D-Pad, paddles, and additional buttons, along with new scroll wheels at the bottom.”
— Tecnoblog
Xbox controller with customizable buttons
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What Remains Unclear
It remains unclear when Microsoft will officially announce or release the Xbox Elite 3 controller. Details about the full feature set, pricing, and availability are still undisclosed. The purpose of the new buttons and scroll wheels, while speculated to relate to game adjustments or new input methods, has not been confirmed by Microsoft. Additionally, the impact of the smaller battery on controller performance and longevity is yet to be tested or verified.
Xbox controller with scroll wheels
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What’s Next
Microsoft is expected to officially unveil the Xbox Elite 3 controller at the upcoming Xbox showcase scheduled for June. Further details on pricing, release date, and additional features are likely to be announced then. Industry analysts and gamers will be watching for official specifications and availability information.
Xbox cloud gaming controller
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Key Questions
When will the Xbox Elite 3 controller be officially announced?
It is not yet confirmed, but leaks suggest an announcement could occur at the upcoming Xbox showcase in June.
What are the new features of the Xbox Elite 3 controller?
The leaked images show new buttons, scroll wheels, an interchangeable D-Pad, paddles, and a switch for cloud gaming mode, along with a smaller removable battery.
Will the Xbox Elite 3 controller improve cloud gaming performance?
Yes, the new cloud mode switch is intended to reduce latency during Xbox Cloud Gaming sessions, according to the leaks.
How does the battery capacity compare to previous models?
The Elite 3 appears to have a smaller, 1,528mAh removable battery, down from the Elite 2’s 2,050mAh, indicating a focus on modular design.
Are these leaks considered reliable?
The images come from regulatory filings with Anatel, a credible source, but Microsoft has not officially confirmed the details yet.
