Microsoft is planning to release a next-gen Xbox controller alongside its mid-generation console refresh at some point next year. The news comes from the massive leak that originated from an FTC vs. Microsoft public document.
Codenamed Sebile, it will bring parity with some of the unique features of the PlayStation 5's DualSense controller, such as haptics feedback and built-in speakers. Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer first praised the DualSense controller shortly after the PS5 launch in November 2020; in July 2021, Spencer once again applauded Sony for their work on the gamepad and also teased that the Xbox controller would have to catch up in this area.
The full feature set is detailed below.
Ubiquity
Play Anywhere
- Xbox Wireless 2
- Direct-to-Cloud
- Bluetooth 5.2
Seamless Pair and Switch
- New mobile app features:
- See paired devices and cloud
- Manage devices and accessories
Sustainability
Do good, feel good
- Rechargeable and swappable battery
- Recycled materials and less resin
- Repair and disassembly
Durable & Reliable
- New modular thumbsticks
- Improved longevity
- Continued build improvements
Immersion
Feel the game
- Precision haptic feedback
- VCA haptics double as speakers
- Accelerometer
- Quieter buttons and thumbsticks
Approachability
Engage & Delight
- Lift to wake
Familiar Xbox Feel
- Same ergonomics as Merlin
- Same layout and activation forces
- SE/LE/XDL options as expected
It's definitely nice to see Microsoft catching up on the haptic feedback, hopefully enticing more developers to implement the feature. However, it doesn't look like the new Xbox controller will support adaptive triggers, leaving that as a DualSense exclusive.
The Xbox controller supports 'impulse triggers' since the Xbox One launch, but it has only been used in a relatively small amount of games. Moreover, it's not really as advanced as the adaptive triggers, which actually add resistance to simulate a bowstring, for example. Impulse triggers merely add optional vibration functionality to the triggers.
The next-gen Xbox controller is expected to be priced at $69.99, just like the current one.
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