Science & Tech · Gadgets & EVs · 2 hrs ago
Microsoft announces pocket-sized Xbox Nano Controller for November
Microsoft has announced the pocket-sized Xbox Nano Controller, due out in November 2026.
It is about five inches long and weighs 3.5 ounces, while keeping the 18 standard gameplay inputs found on regular Xbox controllers.
Microsoft says its small size may suit younger players, people with smaller hands and anyone who wants a portable controller.
It works with Xbox consoles, Windows PCs, iOS and Android devices, and some smart TVs, and includes a rechargeable battery.
The controller costs $49.99, and pre-orders are available; Microsoft says more markets will follow after its initial country list.
It supports Xbox Wireless and Bluetooth, but does not have a direct Wi-Fi connection for cloud gaming, which could mean more delay.
In the United States, eligible buyers of select Samsung TVs or a Meta Quest can receive two months of Game Pass Ultimate for new subscribers, and Microsoft says a review of the controller will come later.
Microsoft announced the Xbox Nano Controller, its smallest Xbox controller, on October 14.
The controller is just over 5 inches long, weighs 3.5 ounces and has the standard 18 gameplay inputs.
It has a rechargeable battery, Xbox Wireless and Bluetooth connectivity, and a programmable Action Button.
Preorders are available in the United States for about $50, with a November release planned.
The controller is presented as a portable option, while one review questions its price and lack of advanced features.
- Who
- Microsoft announced the Xbox Nano Controller.
- What
- It is a pocket-sized game controller with 18 standard gameplay inputs. It costs about $50.
- When
- Announced October 14, 2026; planned for release in November 2026.
- Where
- Preorders are available on the Xbox website in the United States, with availability planned in other markets.
- Why
- Microsoft describes it as a portable option for play on the go and for people with smaller hands.
Microsoft and Xbox
Windows Central reviewer
Portability and usability
Microsoft and Xbox
Microsoft presents the controller as a portable option for play on the go.
Windows Central reviewer
The reviewer says its price and feature omissions make it difficult to recommend on paper.
Price and features
Microsoft and Xbox
Microsoft lists the controller for about $50 and highlights its compact design, standard inputs and wireless connections.
Windows Central reviewer
The reviewer considers the price high and criticizes the lack of Hall Effect or TMR thumbsticks and a direct Wi-Fi connection.
Microsoft announced the Xbox Nano Controller and preorders opened on the Xbox website in the United States.
Microsoft plans to release the controller; Kotaku describes the launch as early November.
Microsoft plans offers pairing the controller with two months of Game Pass Ultimate for buyers of select Samsung TVs and Meta Quest headsets.
- Length
- Just over 5 inches
- Weight
- 3.5 ounces
- Gameplay inputs
- 18 standard inputs
- US preorder price
- $49.99 to $50
- Connectivity
- Xbox Wireless and Bluetooth
- Battery
- Rechargeable
3 sources
What people are saying
The Xbox Nano supports official Xbox Wireless without the need for an additional wireless adapter, plus it has Bluetooth.
Its compact design offers a great option for younger players, smaller hands, or anyone seeking something portable for play on the go