Leaks have surfaced of Xbox’s upcoming Elite 3 controller ahead of the company’s summer showcase. Earlier today a separate leak revealed a compact version of Xbox’s Cloud Gaming controller, aimed at players who stream to a TV, PC or mobile device. This smaller controller is expected to carry a lower price tag than the standard model, potentially widening access for those without a full console, while Xbox continues to serve its premium, hardcore audience.
A fresh leak from Technoblog shows the new Elite 3 sporting a sleek all-black finish with touches of silver on the D-pad and analog sticks. The most eye-catching addition are two scroll wheels positioned at the base of the controller, right beside the microphone jack. Some observers think the wheels could provide extra inputs for titles that benefit from mouse-like control, while others suspect they may act as volume knobs, allowing quick balancing of game and chat audio. If intended for gameplay, their location could feel cumbersome for frequent use.
Further rumours suggest the Elite 3 will include a removable rechargeable battery and a new “pair” button that toggles between local and cloud modes, the latter promising lower latency for a smoother cloud-gaming experience.
The Elite range has always targeted dedicated players who enjoy fine-tuning their hardware with adjustable buttons and triggers for greater precision. Fans have welcomed the series, but it has been some time since the last iteration – the Elite Series 2 debuted in 2019. While it remains unclear what additional flagship features the Elite 3 may bring, more details are expected in the near future.
Xbox’s summer showcase, scheduled for June, will preview upcoming titles such as Gears of War: E-Day. The event also offers new CEO Asha Sharma a platform to outline the brand’s direction under her stewardship. Rolling out fresh hardware, even if green-lit by previous leadership, would signal a strong forward push. Sharma’s measured approach to the company’s future, including support for enthusiast-grade peripherals, could earn her additional goodwill among the fanbase.
