Xbox Wireless Controller not responding? Microsoft is working on a fix.

Xbox Series X Controller
Xbox Series X Controller (Image credit: Matt Brown | Windows Central)

What you need to know

  • Some Xbox Wireless Controllers are having issues with registering button presses.
  • The issue appears to only affect the newer Xbox Wireless Controllers that started shipping with the Xbox Series X and Series S.
  • Controllers appear to have issues when trying to work with the Xbox Series X, Series S, and PCs.

Some Xbox Wireless Controllers appear to have an issue registering button presses. The issue seems limited to the newer Xbox Wireless Controllers that started shipping with the Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S. Microsoft is now investigating the issue, but there is not a fix at this time.

A YouTube video by user "Jake" demonstrates the issue. In the video, a person repeatedly presses the Y button, but only some of the presses are registered. The issue appears to be intermittent, as some presses register while others do not.

Microsoft said in a statement to The Loadout:

At Microsoft, we put all of our products through rigorous quality assurance testing and are committed to providing customers with an unparalleled gaming experience. We are aware some players may be experiencing unresponsiveness with their new Xbox Wireless Controllers and our teams are actively working on a solution. For the best experience, we encourage customers to visit Xbox Support for assistance.

It's unclear at this time how widespread the issue is. If you're on the hunt for one of the best Xbox Series X and Series S controllers as an alternative or a replacement, there are plenty to choose from.

Sean Endicott
News Writer and apps editor

Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He's covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean's journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.