Xbox Nano Controller: a smaller gamepad with a built-in battery for $49.99
On 4 November Microsoft launches a compact controller for gaming on the go, children and smaller hands. Unlike the standard model, it has a built-in battery.
Symbolic image · Photo: Evan-Amos / Wikimedia Commons, Public domain (cropped and resized)
Microsoft has unveiled the Xbox Nano Controller, a scaled-down version of the Xbox gamepad. It goes on sale on 4 November for $49.99 (€49.99, £44.99) and is already available to pre-order. According to Gameswelt, the controller is just under 13.3 centimetres long and weighs around 100 grams; VGC puts the standard model at around 10 ounces. It is aimed at gaming on the go, children and players with smaller hands.
Despite its compact size, the Nano Controller offers all the buttons of the full-size model plus a programmable Action Button, for example for screenshots or video clips. Unlike the standard controller, which needs AA batteries or a separately sold battery pack, it has a built-in battery charged via USB-C.
It connects via Xbox Wireless to Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One, or via Bluetooth to Windows PCs, Android and iOS devices and smart TVs. According to VGC, Microsoft could also soon announce a new Elite controller; this has not been confirmed.