Microsoft’s long-awaited replacement for the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 may finally be getting close, with a new leak revealing what could be some of the biggest upgrades coming to the premium controller.

The current Elite Series 2 launched seven years ago, but information reportedly uncovered in the backend of Microsoft’s Xbox Design Lab points to a new controller codenamed “Edessa”. According to Reddit user u/esketitethan, the files reveal potential features including Hall-effect and TMR analogue sticks, upgraded haptics and a dedicated audio scroll wheel.

Xbox Design Lab is Microsoft’s online customisation platform for Xbox controllers, including the Elite Series 2. The Reddit user claims its backend contained configuration records alongside 16 3D component models relating to Edessa. The controller was also linked to an accessory or customisation product codenamed “Beatrice”.

Perhaps the most significant change involves the analogue sticks. The Elite Series 2 uses traditional potentiometer-based sticks, which can become susceptible to stick drift as components wear.

References to Hall-effect and TMR sticks suggest Microsoft is considering magnetic sensing technology for its next premium controller. Both technologies avoid the physical contact used by traditional potentiometers, potentially improving durability and reducing the likelihood of stick drift.

Microsoft also appears to be planning a major change to the controller’s vibration system. The leaked information references advanced VCA haptic motors, potentially pointing to voice-coil actuators capable of producing more detailed feedback than the traditional rumble motors used in existing Xbox controllers.

That could give the next Elite controller more sophisticated haptic effects, although it remains unclear how closely the system would resemble the haptic feedback and trigger effects found in Sony’s PS5 DualSense controller.

The leak also points to a dedicated audio scroll wheel, low-friction and quieter sticks, and several interchangeable D-pad designs. These reportedly include standard, cross-shaped and grippy or faceted options.

Rear controls could become even more customisable, with standard, classic and wider “doublewide” paddle designs reportedly being considered. The files also reference 27 mapped stick-topper and paddle configurations.

Microsoft could expand the cosmetic options available through Xbox Design Lab as well, with references to metal faceplates, patterned designs, a wide selection of colours and engraving.

Four different configurations reportedly appear in the files, including “Elite Complete” and “Elite Base” models, with versions offered both with and without haptic motors.

For now, however, the leak should be treated cautiously. The source files referenced by the Reddit user appear to have since disappeared, and Microsoft has not confirmed that an Elite Series 2 successor is coming or that any of these features will make it into a finished product.

There are also some notable omissions. The leaked information apparently makes no mention of a built-in gyroscope, something some Xbox players have been requesting as competing controllers increasingly offer motion controls.

Still, the latest discovery adds to mounting evidence that Microsoft is preparing a new premium Xbox controller. Previous leaks and the reported accidental sale of what appeared to be an unreleased device have already suggested an Elite Series 2 successor could be approaching.

After seven years without a full replacement, Microsoft’s next Elite controller could finally deliver the hardware overhaul Xbox players have been waiting for.