Back in May, we saw a glimpse of what could be the next Xbox Elite controller, or indeed a prototype of one, as shared by Tecnoblog. One sample of this has been found in the wild, and posted by a Reddit user going by ssuberlex. The post has been removed since, but not before other tech news outlets saved images of the item. The Verge appears to have the most complete set of images, but IGN has them in a higher resolution.
From this live sample of the prototype Xbox Elite 3 controller, we get a better look at some of the new features that appeared in the earlier report. The most notable of the lot, though, is the screen at the top, above where the USB-C charging port is. Right next to it is a pretty conspicuous button, which may serve as a way for the controller to connect directly to Xbox Cloud Gaming servers, or switch between local and cloud modes per the previous report.
Other photos show features that were already clearly shown from the earlier leaks, including the rollers flanking the 3.5mm audio jack at the bottom and the removable battery. This new set of photos shows that the battery is locked behind Torx screws, or more specifically size T6 ones according to The Verge. Then there are the familiar elements of an Xbox controller like the offset analogue sticks and rear pedals. Also notable are the “not for sale” labels on the controller itself and the battery, lending credence to it being a prototype.
Ultimately, ssuberlex noted that they could not get the controller to work either wired or wirelessly. Either way, it’s been over half a decade since the previous Elite controller was released, so unless Microsoft has given up on the line, an Xbox Elite 3 is more a matter of when instead of if.
