Summary
- It appears that the Xbox controller is set for some modernization in the form of haptic feedback and “direct-to-cloud” connectivity.
- Information about the future of Microsoft’s peripherals comes by way of a filing with the U.S.patent office, helping confirm previous rumors.
- According to additional reporting, the updated controller is planned to launch when the next Xbox does.
The tried-and-true standard Xbox controller could be receiving a major refresh in the coming years. That is if a recent patent filed in the United States is anything to go off of.
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The refresh will seemingly bring the controller into the modern era, complete with haptic feedback similar to that of Sony PlayStation’s DualSense. Additionally, it appears that Wi-Fi connectivity will also be part of things.
Welcome To The Modern Ages
As first reported on by Tech4Gamers and later expanded on by Jez Corden of Windows Central, it appears that Microsoft is gearing up for a major controller refresh. While the mid-generation Xbox refresh was for naught, Microsoft still intends on furthering its controller via project “Sebile.”
According to Corden, the project still exists, “and is planned to launch alongside the next generation of Xbox console hardware.”
It’s important to note that the original concept of “Sebile” dates back to a year ago, when information about Microsoft leaked online. What is new are the patents that were filed in December, which essentially confirm the plans to bring haptic feedback to the peripheral.
Per the patent images, Microsoft likely intends to keep the same design of the controller, while innovating internally. Beyond haptics, “direct-to-cloud” connectivity will help boost cloud gaming.
According to the report, via the controller, a player can point it at various devices and seamlessly connect with Wi-Fi. That feature will help eliminate additional latency, and will seemingly allow the controller to be a one-size-fits-all to the various devices that can support cloud gaming.
While a release window or price is not mentioned, Corden does report that it’ll likely have swappable and rechargeable batteries, Bluetooth 5.2 and even “increased repairability.” Even with all the additions, Corden added that “it stands to reason that Microsoft will continue selling the current-gen Xbox controllers.” In other words, if less is best is your flavor, then that’ll still be an option.
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