Xbox controllers are already the default option for a whole range of devices, from the Xbox itself to gaming PCs and tablets. But Microsoft has just announced the Nano Controller, a smaller and cheaper Xbox controller.
The Xbox Nano controller is essentially just a smaller Xbox Series X controller, and while Microsoft's blog doesn't share exact measurements, it is "about 5 inches" long and weighs 3.5 ounces, which is much smaller and lighter than the existing Xbox controller. The Nano Controller is also more affordable, coming in at $49.99, rather than the $69.99 that Microsoft typically charges for a controller. It's available to preorder now.
But while the Nano controller will be compatible with Xbox consoles, the focus here is on other devices like smart TVs, laptops, and any other device that, until recently, Microsoft would have claimed to be an Xbox. To that end, Microsoft is teaming up with Samsung to bundle the new Xbox Nano controller, along with two months of Game Pass with "select Samsung TVs" over the holiday season.
According to Microsoft's blog, the company is also working on a deal with Meta to include the Nano Controller, along with a Game Pass subscription to new Meta Quest owners, but it doesn't sound like that deal is quite set in stone. Still, Microsoft is targeting a holiday release for that, too.
Of course, the compatibility will stretch even further than just Samsung TVs and Meta Quest. Becuase the controller has both the standard Xbox wireless connection, along with Bluetooth, the Nano Controller should work with pretty much any device that supports Bluetooth. So, you could use this to play Fortnite on your iPad, if you're so inclined.
But while the Xbox Nano controller is Microsoft's first foray into mini controllers, it's far from an original concept. Companies like CRKD and 8BitDo have been selling mini controllers for years, and the selling point is the portability. With a controller this small, it's incredibly easy to slip it into a bag and take it wherever you go, without taking up too much space or adding a lot of heft to your bag.
This isn't the only thing that Microsoft's controller team has been working on. For months, there have been leaks suggesting that the new Xbox Elite Series 3 controller is right around the corner, and might even fix some of its predecessor's compatibility problems.
The Xbox Nano Controller will be available starting in November, and you can preorder it now. But as for the partnerships with Samsung and Meta, we'll likely just have to wait until those companies announce more details as the holiday season approaches.