Microsoft launched the Xbox Nano Controller at USD 49.99 in the United States, the United Kingdom, and several other markets. The compact controller went on sale on November 4 and targets players who want a lighter, travel-friendly option for consoles, PCs, phones and smart TVs.
The Nano measures just over five inches and weighs about 3.5 ounces. Despite its size, Microsoft says it includes all 18 standard gameplay inputs, a rechargeable battery and a programmable Action Button.
Microsoft skipped vibration motors and the removable battery pack to keep the design small. The controller still supports Xbox Wireless and Bluetooth, so it can connect to Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One consoles, Windows PCs, Android and iOS devices, and select smart TVs.
The company positions the Nano as an accessible option for casual play and cloud gaming. At USD 49.99, it costs less than many premium controllers while retaining the core Xbox control layout.
The bigger story is not the size. Reports say the Nano supports a direct Wi-Fi link to Xbox Cloud Gaming, now called Cloud Connect. Instead of sending inputs through Bluetooth to a phone, TV, or PC, the controller can communicate directly with Microsoft’s cloud servers over home Wi-Fi. Early reports indicate that the company has already begun rolling out Cloud Connect in preview form for US users.
Cloud gaming depends heavily on response time. Every button press must travel from the controller to Microsoft’s servers, where the game runs, before the video stream returns to the player’s screen.
A direct Wi-Fi connection could cut out an extra Bluetooth hop and reduce input latency. The approach resembles the one Google used with its Stadia controller, which connected directly to Google’s cloud infrastructure. Cloud Connect is not available everywhere yet. Reports say the preview is restricted to the United States and works with supported smart TV and web browser experiences.
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