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The Accidental Reveal
Hours after a smaller Xbox Cloud Gaming controller surfaced online, Brazil's Anatel regulator has also accidentally published images of what appears to be Microsoft's upcoming Xbox Elite 3 controller. Tecnoblog has shared these images, which show the successor to the Elite 2 controller. The leak comes from official certification documents, providing a clear look at the hardware that Microsoft has not yet officially announced.
This follows a pattern of regulatory bodies in Brazil spilling details on unreleased gaming gear. Anatel's database often serves as an early window into product designs before companies make formal reveals. The images depict a controller that builds directly on the Elite series' reputation for customization and pro-level features.
Design and New Features
The Elite 3 controller design looks more refined compared to its predecessor. It retains familiar elements like interchangeable D-Pad and rear paddles, but introduces two new mysterious buttons whose functions remain unclear. Positioned prominently, these could enable quick-access remapping or specialized inputs tailored for competitive play.
A standout addition is the pair of scroll wheels at the bottom of the controller. These could handle controller adjustments such as sensitivity tuning or audio mixing on the fly. Alternatively, they might introduce a new input method for simulation games like Microsoft Flight Simulator, allowing precise control over variables like throttle or trim without relying solely on analog sticks.
The controller also features a new pair button, likely simplifying Bluetooth or wireless connections. Overall, the Elite 3 maintains the premium build quality of the series while pushing customization further, appealing to serious gamers who demand granular control.
Context and Next Steps
This leak aligns with Microsoft's ongoing refinements to its Xbox accessory lineup amid rumors of next-gen hardware. The Elite 2, released years ago, has been a staple for esports pros, and the Elite 3 seems positioned to address common feedback on ergonomics and versatility.
While these images provide solid evidence, full specifications and pricing are still under wraps. Microsoft has not commented on the leak. For more details, the full story is available at The Verge.
