New Xbox Elite Controller Leaks Through Xbox Design Lab, Featuring Hall Effect and TMR Sticks and Advanced Haptics

Information about a new premium Xbox controller in development, codenamed Edessa, has appeared in Xbox Design Lab’s backend data. The data includes configuration options and 16 actual 3D models of components, suggesting this is more than just an experimental entry. Accessories and a customization system called Beatrice have also surfaced.

Hall Effect and TMR sticks

The biggest new feature is expected to be the analog sticks. According to the configurator, Microsoft is preparing Hall effect and TMR (Tunneling Magnetoresistance) sensors, with Hall effect options available in standard, looser and stiffer variants. TMR is a newer type of magnetic sensing that can offer greater precision and lower power consumption than conventional Hall effect solutions. There is also an option labeled Low-friction/Silent, with its own model of a quieter stick mechanism.

New trigger motors

The haptics also look interesting. The backend specifically mentions a combination of Impulse Trigger ERM motors (Eccentric Rotating Mass, conventional vibration motors with an eccentric weight) and Advanced Haptics VCA motors (Voice Coil Actuator, electromagnetic linear actuators capable of more precise and faster vibrations). The new controller could therefore offer significantly more detailed haptic feedback than current Xbox gamepads.

Audio controls

The controller is also set to get a dedicated scroll wheel for audio control. Microsoft appears to be expanding the back paddle options as well. Short and long variants are listed, along with classic, “doublewide” and Butterfly designs, as well as configurations without upper paddles.

The D-pad will be available in standard, cross-shaped and textured or faceted designs, with the backend distinguishing between cosmetic and performance variants. Design Lab is also set to offer metal faceplates, a wide range of colors, themed designs and engraving.

The data lists four SKU versions. Elite Complete is set to include a case, charging dock, longer lower paddles and short upper paddles, while the base version comes with short lower paddles, no upper paddles and a cable. Both packages also have versions with and without haptic motors.

The information comes solely from the configurator backend used by Xbox Design Lab, and Microsoft has not officially announced the new controller. However, the amount of data, 3D models and SKU configurations suggests that the next-generation Xbox Elite controller may already be fairly far along in development.

Features and equipment known so far:

• Hall effect analog sticks
• TMR analog sticks
• Stick variants with different levels of resistance
• Low-friction/Silent sticks
• Short and long analog sticks
• Impulse Trigger ERM vibration motors
• Advanced haptics with VCA actuators
• Scroll wheel for audio control
• Several types of rear paddles
• Short, long, classic, doublewide and Butterfly paddles
• Configurations without upper rear paddles
• Several D-pad types
• Metal faceplates
• Extensive color options and engraving
• Elite Complete version with a case and charging dock
• Base version with a cable
• Versions with and without haptic motors

Plus, if the final version looks like the one in the photos, a rear information display will also be standard.