A new Xbox controller could be coming from Microsoft, according to a recent report by The Verge that outlines Xbox’s plans for the coming years. The information suggests that a new controller model may arrive around 2026, featuring additional improvements compared to the current version.
Journalist Tom Warren briefly mentioned the device while discussing other Xbox-related rumors, including the release windows for Gears of War: E-Day and the Halo remake. The report lines up with older rumors about a major revision of the standard Xbox controller.
While details are still unclear, this could be connected to the previously leaked “Sebile” project, which was meant to introduce a new controller alongside a revised Xbox Series X model that was later canceled.
Reduced Latency Through New Connectivity
Tom Warren highlighted one specific feature of the new controller: “I’m hearing that Microsoft has greenlit next-gen Xbox controllers that include Wi-Fi connectivity to reduce Xbox Cloud Gaming latency.”
He also added that: “A new Xbox controller was originally planned for 2024, alongside a canceled Xbox Series X refresh.”
At this point, it is not clear whether the new controller will fully inherit the features once planned for Project Sebile or if Microsoft has changed direction.
Previous rumors linked to Sebile mentioned haptic feedback, modular analog sticks, and a rechargeable battery, but none of these features have been confirmed so far. For now, the only detail mentioned is the improved latency enabled by the new wireless connection.
Alongside this, journalist Jez Corden has also suggested that an Xbox Elite Controller Series 3 could arrive by 2026. However, it is still unknown whether this model would be based on the same redesign mentioned by The Verge.
In other news, Epic Games has confirmed that the next Xbox console will integrate the Epic Games Store, pointing to broader changes across Microsoft’s gaming ecosystem in the years ahead.
