Xbox Nano Controller Launches at $49.99, Drops Leaked Screen Feature

Key points

• The Xbox Nano is priced at $49.99 and is available for pre-order immediately, with shipments starting in November.
• The controller measures just over five inches in length and weighs 3.5 ounces, making it significantly smaller than standard Xbox controllers.
• It includes a built-in rechargeable battery, eliminating the need for AA batteries or separate charging packs.
• A programmable Action Button allows users to customize shortcuts for screenshots and gameplay capture.
• The device supports both Xbox Wireless and Bluetooth connectivity for use with consoles, PCs, and mobile devices.
• The small status screen depicted in earlier leaks has been removed from the final shipping model.

Background

This release follows recent industry shifts in controller hardware, including Razer's launch of the Wolverine V4 with capacitive sensors and the leak of Microsoft's next-generation 'Edessa' Elite controller. The Xbox Nano also arrives amid broader changes to Xbox Cloud Gaming, including new usage caps for subscribers and the discontinuation of support for older Samsung TVs, which may influence the controller's utility for cloud-based play.

How outlets are covering it

The Verge emphasizes the controller's portability and its omission of the previously leaked status screen, noting its design for younger players and smaller hands. GameSpot highlights the device's weight of 3.5 ounces and mentions a new bundle with Samsung TVs that includes two months of Game Pass Ultimate. T3 focuses on the controller's suitability for Xbox Cloud Gaming on smart TVs and streaming devices, noting its Bluetooth connectivity. All sources agree on the $49.99 price point and November shipping date, but differ in their emphasis on the device's target audience and ecosystem integrations.

Why it matters

The Xbox Nano expands Microsoft's controller lineup to include a budget-friendly, ultra-compact option, potentially attracting younger gamers and users of cloud gaming services. Its inclusion of a rechargeable battery and programmable button offers modern conveniences at a lower price point, while the removal of the status screen suggests Microsoft prioritized cost and simplicity over additional display features. This move may also signal a strategic focus on accessibility and portability in a market increasingly influenced by cloud gaming restrictions.

What to watch

Pre-orders are open now, with the controller shipping in November. Microsoft is also rolling out new bundles with Samsung and Meta, including the Nano controller with Game Pass subscriptions and VR headsets. Additionally, Xbox Cloud Gaming subscribers will face new usage caps, which may affect how the controller is used for streaming services.