A new version of the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller is on the way, Microsoft announced Sunday during its E3 2019 press briefing.
New version of Xbox Elite Controller coming in November
New $179.99 model features upgraded parts
Samit Sarkar (he/him) is Polygon’s deputy managing editor. He has more than 17 years of experience covering video games, movies, television, and technology.
Known as Series 2, the redesigned model will come with a host of new and upgraded components, highlighted by a rechargeable battery and Bluetooth connectivity. Other improvements include adjustable-tension thumbsticks, a rubberized grip, redesigned bumpers, and three custom profiles. Perhaps most important of all, Microsoft said it has re-engineered the controller to make it more durable. The gamepad will be compatible with both Windows PC and Xbox One.
The Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 is scheduled to be released Nov. 4 in 24 countries for $179.99 — $30 more than the original model. Microsoft said that pre-orders will go live at the Microsoft Store later on Sunday.
Rumors of a new model of the Elite controller have been flying for a year and half, ever since images of a redesign surfaced on Reddit and the Chinese site Baidu in January 2018. However, Microsoft never announced anything about a revision of the gamepad; instead, the company released a white version of the Elite controller (alongside a matching Xbox One X) in August. The rumors mentioned the new and upgraded hardware features, and 18 months later, they finally came true.
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