Microsoft’s Xbox controller has remained relatively unchanged since the Xbox 360 generation, with only iterative updates being made. This may be about to change, however, as a new rumor from Xbox Era leaker Nick suggests that Microsoft is prototyping a new controller with a touchpad.
The touchpad was first introduced with the Dualshock 4 in 2013, but it has not seen widespread use outside of a few PlayStation games. If the rumor is true, Microsoft could be looking to implement its own version of the touchpad and possibly utilize it more than Sony has. The alleged controller is also said to feature “HD Rumble,” which could be similar to the Dualsense’s haptic feedback.
In addition to these rumors, a patent filed by Microsoft shows a controller with an LCD screen. While Nick’s source suggests that the next Xbox controller will have a touchpad, it’s worth noting that this information should be taken with a grain of salt until an official announcement is made by Microsoft.
If the rumor is true and the controller is indeed being prototyped, it’s likely that we won’t see a proper implementation of these new features until the next generation of consoles. Still, the prospect of an Xbox controller with innovative features like a touchpad and improved rumble technology has many fans excited. What do you think of the idea of a touchpad for Xbox controllers? Would you utilize the feature if it was added? Let us know in the comments below.
