Compact Xbox Cloud Gaming controller appears in leaked photos
Microsoft is reportedly developing a new compact Xbox controller for Xbox Cloud Gaming. Tecnoblog has published images and details of the device, which appears to be a smaller controller with the standard Xbox button layout. They do not name the source, but it looks like some kind of regulatory office photos.
The controller keeps the familiar Xbox face buttons, asymmetrical analog sticks, D-pad, bumpers and triggers. The images show black and white versions, suggesting Microsoft has prepared at least two color options. The unit shown in the photo is marked as a prototype for evaluation and not for sale.
According to Tecnoblog, the controller supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi 6. The Wi-Fi connection is limited to 20 MHz bandwidth, while the wireless chip is reportedly a Realtek RTL8730E with two ARM Cortex-A7 cores running at 1.2 GHz. This explains why the controller has leaked; basically, anything with radio has to go through certification.
Microsoft compact Xbox controller prototype, Source: Tecnoblog
The controller also has a USB-C port and a 500 mAh internal rechargeable battery. The top edge includes an extra button, which may be used for pairing or switching modes. Tecnoblog also points to a possible indicator area, which could separate standard Xbox use from Xbox Cloud Gaming.
This would make the controller different from the standard Xbox Wireless Controller, which relies on Xbox Wireless and Bluetooth. A Wi-Fi radio could allow Microsoft to reduce input path limitations for cloud gaming devices, although Microsoft has not confirmed how the feature works.
There is no confirmed release date, pricing or official product name. Tecnoblog says there is no sign of the controller in the FCC database yet. The device is identified in the report as Microsoft controller model 2147.
Source: Tecnoblog
