Microsoft Finally Announces Next-Gen Xbox Elite Controller

It’s finally here. We have been waiting for a new Xbox Elite wireless controller for a long, long while. And Microsoft just unveiled the new Xbox Elite controller at E3 today. It’s called the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2.

Microsoft’s new Xbox Elite controller is not a simple refresh by any means. The company says it has completely rebuilt the controller from the ground-up, re-engineering the entire product. By re-engineering the product, Microsoft was able to rethink some core aspects of the hardware, which has allowed for improvements in some major areas.

First things first, the new Xbox Elite controller comes with Bluetooth support, meaning you can finally use it wirelessly. Microsoft introduced Bluetooth with the new Xbox One controller years ago, and it’s nice to see the feature finally making it to Microsoft’s most premium controller.

Microsoft said the new Xbox Elite controller builds on performance, durability, and customization. There’s a total of 30 new features on the next-gen Elite controller, and it’s looking very promising. Here’s what’s new:

• New adjustable-tension thumbsticks
• Higher precision control
• New trigger grip and redesigned bumpers
• Shorter hair trigger locks
• New wrap-around rubberized grip design
• New thumbstick and paddle options
• Three new profiles for different games you play
• Bluetooth connectivity, USB-C
• Internal rechargeable battery, with new detachable charging dock
• 40 hours of battery life

Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 will be available in 24 countries on November 4 for $179.99.