Microsoft has been rumored to be cooking up a new Xbox Elite Controller for some time, but we may now have an idea of when it will break cover. The Verge's Tom Warren today revealed that a new $149 Xbox controller is being developed under the codename "Washburn." Further, Warren says, the controller is set to start shipping in October.
Warren doesn't explicitly call this an Elite Controller follow-up, but the reported pricing suggests it will occupy that same space.
The original Elite Controller made its debut in 2015 as a premium peripheral built for those who want to eke out every bit of possible performance. The controller sported trigger locks, a set of rear paddles that can be mapped to different actions, and the option to add longer joysticks and different directional pads.
According to the occasional leaks that have popped up in recent months, the second iteration of the Elite Controller is expected to be more of an iterative update. Changes include a three-stage hair trigger lock, tension control for the joysticks, and Bluetooth connectivity. A matching charging dock could also be in the cards.
Regardless, it's possible we could see what Microsoft has planned as soon as Gamescom next week. Earlier this year, the company teased that it would show off new bundles and accessories at Gamescom during a special episode of Inside Xbox at 7:30 a.m. PT (10:30 a.m. ET / 4:30 p.m. CET) on August 21.
The current Xbox Elite Controller is available now for $144.
We may earn a commission for purchases using our links. Learn more.
Excited for Age of Empires 4? Here's what we know.
Age of Empires 4 is in the works, and real-time strategy fans can't wait to see everything the game entails when it finally launches. Until then we've put together a bunch of important details that give us an idea of what to expect from the game.
Review: Age of Empires 4 is another big win for Xbox Game Studios
Age of Empires 4 has been a long time in the making, but it's finally ready to be unveiled. After dozens of hours of early access playtime, it's safe to say most people are going to have a great time.
Project Shaolin: Xbox may be working on a Wu-Tang themed action RPG
Project Shaolin looks to be another upcoming Xbox exclusive built in partnership with Brass Lion Entertainment, with a heavy Wu-Tang slant. Here's what we know so far.
These are the best keyboards to use with Xbox Series X and S
Xbox Series X and S continue Xbox's support of mouse and keyboard control, so we rounded up the best keyboards to use with your next-gen console.