Microsoft announced this week that it is rolling out a firmware update for the Xbox One wireless controller that will improve its connectivity and reliability. Members of the Xbox Preview Program will get the update immediately, but everyone with an Xbox One console should be able to update within the next 30 days or so.
The firmware update provides the following two improvements:
Quick Connect. You can now connect a controller to an Xbox One console in less than 2 seconds, compared to 4 to 5 seconds previously.
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Stability improvements. Microsoft says the firmware also provides a number of fixes that address issues submitted by customers and preview participants.
To update the firmware on your Xbox One controller, you must first connect it to the console with a USB cable. (I keep a cable plugged into the Xbox One for charging purposes, which will make this easier.) Then, press the Menu button on the controller and navigate to Settings, Devices & Accessories and then   select the controller and select Update.
You will see an “Updating controller … ” message while the update is downloaded and installed. When it’s done, press the B button to go back. The firmware will then be version 1.2.2236.0.
This is the second time (that I’m aware of) that Microsoft has updated the firmware for the Xbox One controller. The first update was provided at the Xbox One launch.