New Cloud-Connected Xbox Controller From Microsoft Leaks

A new Xbox controller from Microsoft designed for Xbox Cloud Gaming has apparently leaked, with a first set of pictures published today by Brazilian blog Tecnoblog (via The Verge). The leaked images come from Anatel, the Brazilian equivalent of the US FTC.

The new cloud gaming controller looks smaller than Microsoft’s regular Xbox controllers, and it also has a different, probably less comfortable shape. Some of the pictures also show that the triggers may not offer a lot of travel distance, if at all.

The new controller is said to support 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi connectivity in addition to Bluetooth 5.3. Connecting directly to the cloud should help to reduce latency, similar to how Amazon’s Luna controller works. The Google Stadia controller also used a similar technology while Google’s cloud gaming service was available.

Microsoft’s Xbox Cloud Gaming finally went out of beta in October, which is also when all Game Pass tiers got access to the cloud gaming service. Xbox Cloud Gaming currently supports Bluetooth-enabled Xbox and PlayStation controllers, as well as other compatible controllers over Bluetooth or USB.

We’ve known for quite some time that Microsoft was working on a new controller that can connect directly to the cloud, but this design is more reminiscent of smartphone accessories such as the Backbone Pro. With Microsoft’s annual Xbox Games Showcase right around the corner, we may not have to wait much longer for an official announcement.