Microsoft appears to be preparing a new premium Xbox controller, with leaked information pointing to a major upgrade over the seven-year-old Elite Series 2.
The Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 could soon have a successor, as information reportedly found within Microsoft’s own Xbox Design Lab backend has revealed specifications for an unannounced controller. The device is believed to be codenamed Edessa and could become the long-awaited Elite Controller 3.
Reddit user u/esketitethan uncovered the information by examining configuration data and 3D component files associated with Xbox Design Lab. The service allows users to customise compatible Xbox controllers, making its backend an unusual but potentially revealing source for information about upcoming hardware.
According to the leaker, the backend contained “configuration records and 16 actual 3D component models” connected to the new controller. The device was reportedly linked to an accessory or customisation product with the codename Beatrice.
The source files referenced in the Reddit post have reportedly since been removed. That makes independent verification more difficult and means the leaked information should be treated cautiously. Nevertheless, the level of detail in the alleged files has fuelled speculation that Microsoft could announce the controller in the near future.
The timing would also make sense. The Elite Series 2 was launched in 2019, meaning it has now been on the market for several years. While Microsoft has continued to update and support the premium controller, a new generation could bring hardware improvements that address some of the limitations of the existing model.
Hall-effect and TMR sticks could address stick drift
One of the most significant claims concerns the controller’s analogue sticks. The Elite Series 2 uses traditional potentiometer-based analogue sticks, a technology that can eventually develop stick drift as the components wear down.
The leaked information reportedly indicates that the Elite Controller 3 could offer both Hall-effect and TMR stick options. These technologies use magnetic sensing rather than the physical contact mechanisms found in conventional potentiometers, potentially improving durability and reducing the risk of stick drift.
The leaker described the options as “suggesting a choice of magnetic sensing technology and stick resistance”. If accurate, this could give players greater control over how the analogue sticks feel and respond, while also addressing one of the most common complaints associated with modern game controllers.
The controller could also introduce a more sophisticated approach to haptic feedback. Rather than relying solely on conventional rumble motors, the leaked specifications reportedly mention advanced haptics using VCA motors. Voice-coil-based haptics could allow for more precise feedback and potentially provide an experience closer to the adaptive trigger and haptic systems found in Sony’s PlayStation 5 DualSense controller.
Other changes are reportedly planned for the controller’s physical controls. The D-pad could be offered in several configurations, including “standard, cross and grippy/faceted choices”. Players may also be able to select low-friction or silent analogue sticks, potentially making the controller better suited to competitive gaming and quieter environments.
Extensive customisation could remain a key feature
Customisation appears to be another major focus of the alleged Elite Controller 3. Xbox Design Lab is already built around personalising controllers, and the leaked information suggests Microsoft could expand those options considerably for its next premium model.
According to the leak, faceplates could come in metal finishes, patterned designs, a wide range of colours, and engraving options. The controller could also introduce additional paddle configurations, including standard, classic and doublewide designs. A total of 27 mapped topper and paddle combinations are reportedly planned, giving users significant flexibility when configuring the controller for different games.
A dedicated audio scroll wheel is also among the reported features. Such a control could provide a quicker way to adjust headset volume or other audio functions without opening an in-game menu or reaching for another device.
The leak also reportedly points to four different SKU configurations. These would include Elite Complete and Elite Base versions, with each option potentially being offered with or without motors. The different configurations could allow Microsoft to target both players looking for a fully equipped premium controller and those who want a more basic version at a lower price.
Despite the detail, there are still reasons to remain sceptical. The original backend material is no longer publicly available, and some members of the Xbox community have questioned whether Microsoft would develop its own Hall-effect or TMR stick technology. Others have pointed out that the leaked specifications apparently still do not include a built-in gyroscope, a feature some players have been requesting for years.
There has also been speculation that Microsoft could be close to revealing the controller following earlier reports and the apparent accidental sale of a device believed to be the next Elite model. If those reports are accurate, the Elite Controller 3 may not remain a rumour for much longer.
