The long-awaited Xbox Elite Controller Series 3 has surfaced again — this time through Microsoft's own Xbox Design Lab.
Reddit user u/esketitethan found configuration records and 16 actual 3D component models for the unannounced controller, codenamed Edessa, in the backend of Spectrum Customizer, the configuration system behind Design Lab.
The Elite Controller Series 2 launched seven years ago, and players have waited years for a successor. These specs suggest Microsoft is finally close.
Drift-free sticks at last
The standout upgrade is the choice of Hall effect and TMR (tunnel magnetoresistive) thumbsticks. The records offer standard, loose and tight Hall effect stick options plus a TMR magnetic sensing option for players who want more sensitivity.
Both technologies use magnets instead of contact potentiometers, removing the mechanical wear that causes stick drift — a notorious weakness of the Series 2.
Haptics catch up to DualSense
The motor option names "Impulse Triggers (ERMs) & Advanced Haptics (VCAs) Motors," pointing to voice-coil haptics alongside trigger vibration. That would bring Xbox's haptic feedback closer to the PS5 DualSense, which has offered HD haptics for years.
The leak also reveals a dedicated audio scroll wheel, performance D-pads with standard, cross and grippy or faceted choices, metal faceplate options with engraving, low-friction and silent sticks, more paddle designs including standard, classic, doublewide and butterfly, and 27 mapped topper and paddle configurations.
Four models, launch timing
The records list four SKU combinations: Elite Base and Elite Complete, each with and without motors. Windows Central's Jez Corden has said quality control and repairability were a priority for Series 3, and that it could feature direct Wi-Fi connectivity to cut latency in cloud gaming.
Xbox is expected to announce the controller before the end of the year, with a launch possibly timed around Xbox's 25th anniversary in November.
By Hamza Faisal
