There’s been a massive leak revealing new Xbox hardware and is a sneak peek into Microsoft’s ideas for a mid-gen console refresh, as well as a new next-gen console. The biggest news, however, was a new Xbox controller codenamed Sebile.  

Also being referred to as “The New Xbox Controller,” the Sebile has many features that would allow it to stand out from competitors, including cloud compatibility, modular thumbsticks, and haptic feedback. 

Some gamers claim that while the Xbox Series X is a very powerful console, the controller is underwhelming. Sony’s DualSense incorporated haptic feedback and adaptive trigger, while Nintendo Switch’s Joy-Cons played with IR sensors and HD rumble, making the Xbox controller feel plain in comparison. 

So far, the only improvements appeared to be a Share button, and a D-pad rework. It is, however, durable, and customisable through Xbox Design Lab. It just lacks unique characteristics, unintentionally making it feel as if the Xbox lacks ambition and creativity. 

It’s expected the Sebile will have distinctive technological capabilities. If the final product plan proves accurate, Microsoft will be closely integrating cloud gaming plans, including “Direct-to-Cloud” support, allowing players to connect the controller to Microsoft’s servers, ensuring minimal latency while playing cloud-based games. 

It’s also expected to have haptic feedback, with the leak also mentioning “VCA haptics double as speakers,” meaning it should provide developers with a new way to output audio for games. The thumbsticks and buttons are tipped to be quieter and modular, adding more customisation options. 

Some of the smaller improvements include a rechargeable and swappable battery, accelerometer gyro support, and a lift-to-wake feature, meaning players won’t have to press the Xbox button to turn the controller on. 

It appears Microsoft are aiming for the same $70 price tag of the current specially designed wireless controllers, rather than the $130-180 cost of an Elite Series 2. It’s important to note: this still has to be confirmed, and Australian pricing may differ. 

Some are expecting Sebile could lack some of the features outlined above, or be more expensive than tipped, with the leak indicating it could be available as early as May 2024.