The Elite series, one of Microsoft’s most powerful accessories in the gaming world, is preparing to receive a massive update after a long time. Documents and images accidentally shared by Brazil’s regulatory agency Anatel proved that the next generation Xbox Elite Series 3 controller is at the door.

This leak, reported by The Verge, revealed not only design changes but also groundbreaking technical details on cloud gaming and hardware customization. This big step, which has been expected since Elite Series 2 released in 2019, is seen as a part of the Xbox ecosystem’s future next-generation console plans, codenamed “Project Helix”.

• Dual Scroll Wheel:Two new “scroll wheels” added to the bottom of the controller will provide precise control, especially in simulation games.

• Direct Cloud Connection:Thanks to the new generation Wi-Fi technology, the controller will connect directly to cloud servers without the need for a console, minimizing latency.

• Replaceable Battery and Modular Structure:Unlike the previous model, it switches to a smaller but easily replaceable rechargeable battery system.

Xbox Elite Series 3 Design Revolution: Scroll Wheels Are Coming

The most striking physical change in the leaked images was the two scroll wheels at the bottom of the controller. This feature appears for the first time on a standard game controller.

Experts say that these wheels are especially Microsoft Flight SimulatorHe states that it will revolutionize flap settings or camera zoom operations in games with complex control schemes such as. It is also expected that these wheels will function as mouse wheels when using a PC, making navigation easier.

The D-pad (direction keys) design has also been completely renewed. The controller, which has a more ergonomic and responsive structure, also has a new texture that improves palm grip. However, the images do not give a clear clue as to whether Hall Effect sensors are used to solve the “stick drift” problem that players complain about the most.

Dedicated Hardware Support for Cloud Gaming

Microsoft takes its “Xbox Everywhere” vision to the next level with Elite Series 3. A new pairing button on the front of the controller allows instant switching between local console connection and cloud mode. This controller can be directly connected to the home router thanks to the special Wi-Fi 6E/7 chip it contains.

This technology eliminates the need for the signal to pass through the console, reducing the input lag in cloud games by approximately 20ms.

This promises the closest performance to a local console experience, especially for Xbox Cloud Gaming users. The hardware inside the controller uses an advanced version of “Dynamic Latency Input” (DLI) technology, which synchronizes the polling rate with the refresh rate of the screen.

New Approach to Modularity and Battery Performance

The Elite Series 2 had a built-in battery that could not be easily removed by the user. Elite Series 3 comes with a removable and rechargeable battery block with a capacity of 1,528 mAh.

Although it appears to be lower in capacity than the previous model (2,050 mAh), thanks to its modular structure, players will be able to continue gaming without interruption with spare batteries.

In addition, leaks indicate that the trigger buttons and the buttons on the front may be “hot-swap”, that is, easily replaceable modular parts. Gamers will be able to choose between mechanical click-feel switches and classic soft-press membrane switches. This move by Microsoft aims to make the controller a fully customizable professional equipment.

Elite Series 3 is expected to be released in 2026 and will be the pioneer of Xbox’s new hardware family.