TL;DR
Brazilian regulator Anatel leaked images of the Xbox Elite Controller 3, confirming its existence and revealing new features. The leak suggests the product is close to release, possibly prompting an earlier announcement from Microsoft.
Brazilian regulator Anatel leaked images of the Xbox Elite Controller 3, confirming the upcoming product and revealing key features ahead of an official announcement from Microsoft.
The leaked images, circulated by local tech site Tecnoblog and picked up by The Verge, show the Xbox Elite Controller 3 with several notable updates. The controller features two scroll wheels at the bottom, likely controlled by the thumbs, and a new pairing button on the front that appears to toggle between local and cloud modes. The D-pad has been redesigned, and the controller seems to be switching to a removable, rechargeable battery system, marking a significant upgrade from previous models.
These images emerged from Anatel, Brazil’s national telecommunications regulator, which appears to have inadvertently leaked the product details. The leak follows a recent pattern of regulatory agencies revealing upcoming hardware prior to official announcements, suggesting the device is near release. The second-generation Elite Controller, introduced in 2019 and customizable through the Design Lab in 2022, has not seen a refresh in several years, making this leak particularly noteworthy for Xbox fans and industry watchers.
Why It Matters
This leak is significant because it confirms the Xbox Elite Controller 3’s development and hints at substantial hardware improvements. As the device appears close to release, Microsoft may accelerate its official announcement, especially with the company’s upcoming summer showcase. The new features, including customizable controls and a rechargeable battery, could impact the high-end controller market and appeal to competitive gamers and enthusiasts.
For consumers, the leak offers insight into what to expect from the next iteration of Xbox’s premium controller, potentially influencing purchasing decisions and gaming setups. It also underscores the importance of regulatory agencies in revealing product details ahead of official channels, which could affect marketing strategies.
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Background
The Xbox Elite Controller line debuted in 2015, with the second generation released in 2019, offering extensive customization and premium features. The 2022 Design Lab update allowed further personalization. Since then, there has been speculation about a new model, especially as Microsoft prepares for its major summer showcase, where new hardware is often announced. The leak from Anatel follows a recent pattern where regulators inadvertently reveal upcoming electronics, providing early glimpses of hardware before official marketing efforts.
“The images show the Xbox Elite Controller 3 with notable new features, including scroll wheels, a new pairing button, and a switch to rechargeable batteries.”
— Tecnoblog
“Leaks like this suggest the product is near release, and Microsoft might announce it sooner than expected, especially with the summer showcase approaching.”
— industry analyst
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What Remains Unclear
It is not yet confirmed when the Xbox Elite Controller 3 will be officially announced or released. Details about the final design, pricing, and availability remain unconfirmed, and Microsoft has not issued an official statement regarding the leak.
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What’s Next
Microsoft is likely to address the leak soon, possibly accelerating its official announcement. The company’s summer showcase, scheduled in the coming weeks, may feature the official reveal. Further details about pricing and release dates are expected to follow.
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Key Questions
Is the Xbox Elite Controller 3 officially confirmed?
No, Microsoft has not officially announced the controller. The leak from Anatel is the first confirmed information about its existence.
What new features are expected in the Xbox Elite Controller 3?
Leaked images suggest features including two scroll wheels, a new pairing button, a redesigned D-pad, and a switch to rechargeable, removable batteries.
When might the Xbox Elite Controller 3 be released?
There is no official release date yet. The leak indicates it could be announced soon, possibly around Microsoft’s upcoming summer showcase.
How did the leak occur?
The images were accidentally leaked by Brazil’s national telecommunications regulator, Anatel, which listed the product prematurely.
Will the leak affect Microsoft’s official announcement?
It is possible that Microsoft may accelerate its announcement to control the messaging and marketing around the new controller.
