On October 14, Microsoft announced the Xbox Nano Controller, the smallest controller in Xbox history. The accessory costs $49.99 in the United States, is already available for pre-order there and hits stores in November in 36 markets. The pitch is clear: an affordable, pocket-sized controller designed for playing on many devices and for people with smaller hands.

What was announced

The announcement was made on Xbox Wire by James Hunter, general manager of Xbox Accessories. According to the company, the Nano is just over 5 inches long and weighs 3.5 ounces, making it smaller and lighter than most modern smartphones. Despite its size, it keeps all 18 standard Xbox controller inputs in the same layout.

  • Battery: rechargeable. Microsoft did not disclose battery life.
  • Programmable Action Button: it can act as a shortcut for taking screenshots or recording gameplay, for example.
  • Connectivity: Xbox Wireless and Bluetooth. Gematsu's coverage lists compatibility with Xbox consoles, PC, iOS, Android and select smart TVs, the latter through Xbox Cloud Gaming.
  • Price: $49.99 in the US. Microsoft notes that pricing and availability vary by country.

To show it in use, Microsoft cited Minecraft Dungeons II, where up to four players can team up in local or online co-op, and Forza Horizon 6 as an example of a game to take beyond the living room.

When it launches and where

Xbox Wire says the controller will be available "starting November 2026." Gematsu cites November 4. The official market list includes Argentina, Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, Peru, the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan and much of Europe, among others. Microsoft says more countries will follow.

Prices outside the US vary by country. Check the Microsoft Store and authorized retailers in your region before buying.

US promotions

In the United States, Microsoft has prepared two holiday offers. Buyers of select Samsung TVs get a Nano Controller and two months of Game Pass Ultimate (for new members), using the Xbox app on Samsung's Gaming Hub. Buyers of a Meta Quest also get the controller and two months of Game Pass Ultimate, likewise for new members. These promotions have not been announced for other countries.

Why it matters

The Nano reinforces Microsoft's recent strategy of taking Xbox beyond the console, with games running on PC, phones, TVs and VR headsets via the cloud. A $50 controller that fits in a pocket speaks directly to people who play through Xbox Cloud Gaming instead of buying a console. The announcement came a day after the company introduced Xbox Labs, a group created to test new ways to play.