A Compact Xbox Controller with Wi-Fi 6 for Cloud Gaming May Have Just Leaked

Microsoft is reportedly working on a new, compact Xbox controller specifically for cloud gaming. Earlier today, a report by Brazilian news outlet, Tecnoblog, shared images of a smaller Xbox controller prototype, which looks quite distinct in size from the regular Xbox Wireless Controller we are used to seeing (via VideoCardz).

The leaked images show a familiar layout in a much compact form factor

The report suggest that the leaked compact Xbox controller is codenamed “Microsoft controller model 2147.” As you can see in the leaked images below, the controller keeps the familiar Xbox layout, including asymmetrical analog sticks, ABXY buttons, triggers, bumpers, and the classic D-pad. However, the overall shell appears to be smaller and more portable than the standard Xbox Wireless Controller.

Notably, the leaked prototype suggests that the alleged Xbox controller could launch in both black and white color options. Since it looks like a prototype unit, it isn’t intended for retail sale in its current form just yet. This also means that the design or features are subject to change by the time Microsoft decides to launch it for the masses.

Image credit: Technoblog

The compact Xbox controller reportedly comes with Wi-Fi 6 for reducing latency

Speaking of features, the report claims the new compact Xbox controller supports both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi 6 (restricted to 20 MHz band). Unlike regular Xbox controllers that mainly rely on Bluetooth and Xbox Wireless, this prototype reportedly includes dedicated Wi-Fi hardware powered by a Realtek RTL8730E chip.

The report further claims the chip packs dual ARM Cortex-A7 cores clocked at 1.2 GHz. In other words, Microsoft appears to be working on reducing latency during cloud gaming sessions by connecting the controller more directly over Wi-Fi.

The compact Xbox controller reportedly includes a USB-C port, a 500 mAh rechargeable battery, and an additional top-mounted button that could switch between standard Xbox mode and cloud gaming mode. To catch you up, we did come across a report by The Verge earlier this year that hinted at a next-gen Xbox controller with Wi-Fi connectivity. So, it is possible that this could that controller, or even an entirely different product than the one referred to in that report.

As of now, we haven’t officially heard anything regarding the compact Xbox controller. Therefore, it goes without saying that it could be a concept only and may never see the light of day. If we hear something more about this compact Xbox controller, we’ll let you know.