Xbox Elite Series 3 leaked: scrolling wheels, cloud pad revealed

Xbox Elite Series 3 leaked images point to scrolling wheels and a 500mAh battery, according to images posted by Technoblog. The leaked photos also reveal a new Xbox Cloud Gaming controller with Joy-Con-style triggers and a dedicated cloud button.

What the leaks reveal about Elite Series 3

The Elite Series 3 maintains the familiar shape of the Elite Series 2 but adds two small silver scrolling wheels at the base of the controller. These wheels could serve a similar function to the profile switches on Sony's DualSense Edge controller, allowing players to quickly change between controller configurations during gameplay.

According to the Brazilian tech site Tecnoblog, the Elite Series 3 will pack a 500mAh battery and feature both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi 6 connectivity. The Wi-Fi 6 addition suggests Microsoft is preparing the controller for enhanced cloud gaming capabilities, building on work from their Project Helix Xbox hardware development.

How the Cloud Gaming controller differs from standard Xbox pads

The leaked Xbox Cloud Gaming controller represents a departure from traditional Xbox controller design. It features a flat rectangular form factor with two small grips on either side, making it more portable than standard controllers.

Key differences include Joy-Con-style triggers and shoulder buttons, suggesting Nintendo Switch influence in the design. A new button sits next to a cloud logo at the top of the controller, hinting at dedicated cloud gaming functionality. The controller reportedly connects to games via Wi-Fi rather than requiring a physical console connection.

This design aligns with Microsoft's push to expand Xbox gaming beyond consoles, particularly through their Xbox app on various platforms.

Why Microsoft is developing cloud-focused hardware

Microsoft has been investing heavily in cloud gaming infrastructure as part of their Xbox Game Pass strategy. A dedicated cloud gaming controller would allow players to stream Xbox games to smartphones, tablets, and laptops without requiring a traditional Xbox console.

The flat, portable design makes sense for users who want to play Xbox games on the go using devices that wouldn't normally support console-quality gaming. Microsoft has previously indicated they're working on controllers that can connect directly to cloud services via Wi-Fi, eliminating the need for a host device with Bluetooth connectivity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the rumoured features of the Xbox Elite Series 3?

The Xbox Elite Series 3 is rumoured to include a 500mAh battery, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi 6 connectivity, and two new silver scrolling wheels at the base for profile switching.

What is the Xbox Cloud Gaming Controller?

The Xbox Cloud Gaming Controller is a rumoured new peripheral with a flat rectangular design, Joy-Con-like triggers, and a dedicated cloud button for streaming games via Wi-Fi.

When are the new Xbox controllers expected to be released?

No release date has been announced or rumoured for either controller. The information is based on leaked images of unannounced products from Microsoft.

How much will the Elite Series 3 cost in UAE?

Pricing hasn't been announced, but the Elite Series 2 retailed for Dhs 699-799 in UAE. The Elite Series 3 would likely command similar premium pricing.

Will the Cloud Gaming controller work without an Xbox console?

According to leaks, the Cloud Gaming controller connects directly to games via Wi-Fi, suggesting it can stream Xbox games without requiring a physical console.

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