Leaked Xbox Controller For Cloud Gaming Is Raising Eyebrows For Its Unique Design

Cloud gaming has been a big focus for Microsoft and the Xbox division for several years, and the company has been rumored to be working on a new controller to help with this initiative. It looks like images for the peripheral have leaked, but compared to the standard Xbox Wireless Controller that has been in action for over five years, this new model looks to be a polarizing new design.

Images from Brazil’s Anatel regulator (via Tecnoblog) show off a device that’s smaller and more compact than a standard controller. The new controller reportedly features the standard inputs of an Xbox controller, a rechargeable 500mAh internal battery, Bluetooth connectivity for 2.4Ghz and 5Ghz, and Wi-Fi functionality for game streaming.

At the top of the controller is an additional button, theorized to be for pairing to a compatible device. Internally, the controller is said to be equipped with Realtek RTL8730E hardware and two 1.2 GHz ARM Cortex-A7 cores, and the photos show off black and white colorways.

It’s the overall shape of the controller that may raise eyebrows, as it features a small but wide design that doesn’t look too ergonomic. It has a distinctly third-party look, but in comparison to what a company like 8BitDo produces, it doesn’t quite look like a premium option. It’s worth noting that the Xbox Series X|S Wireless Controller is fully compatible with Xbox Cloud Gaming on PCs, smart TVs, and mobile devices, with both USB-C and Bluetooth connectivity depending on the platform. These come in a wide variety of color options, including a new Forza Horizon 6 variant with neon gradients.

In related news, Xbox Cloud Gaming’s rumored ad-based tier is reportedly launching later this year, following rounds of testing in 2025. Before his departure earlier this year, former Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer said Xbox Cloud Gaming streaming hours had grown by 45% year-over-year and that the goal was to make gaming “more accessible than ever.”