It looks like Microsoft is preparing to release not just one, but two new Xbox controllers this summer. Just a few hours after images of his Next compact Xbox Cloud Gaming controller leakedImages of the next-gen Xbox Elite controller have now also surfaced online.
According Technology blogThe images were released by Brazilian regulator Anatel and reveal pretty much everything about the Xbox Elite Series 3 controller. It now features two new scrollable wheels on the bottom of the controller on either side of the headphone jack, which The edge theorizes it could be useful for games like Microsoft Flight Simulatoror to control volume and in-game chat.
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The final upgrade is with the rechargeable battery. Finally it’s user replaceable, meaning you’ll be able to swap it out for a new one when it’s low if you forgot to charge it. Unfortunately, Anatel’s listing implies that the replaceable battery is smaller than the one built into the Xbox Elite Controller Series 2, around 500 mAh.
Both the original and second-generation Xbox Elite controllers suffered from quality control issues, with stick drift and high material wear being common issues faced by customers. Hopefully this third-generation Xbox Elite controller can solve those problems once and for all.
Microsoft has yet to officially announce both the Xbox Elite Controller Series 3 and Xbox Cloud Gaming, but they will likely be revealed in the coming weeks, possibly at Microsoft’s annual gaming showcase taking place this year on June 7.
Xbox has enjoyed a number of positive changes in recent weeks, starting with CEO Asha Sharma declaring “the return of Xbox.” Microsoft is clearly once again interested in building Xbox hardware of its own, and these new controllers should renew hope that the company is serious about creating great gaming hardware.
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