Xbox Elite Series 3 Controller Leaks with Scroll Wheels and Cloud Mode

Microsofts next premium controller just showed up where no one expected — a Brazilian regulatory database. Images filed with Brazils Anatel agency this week give us our clearest look yet at the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 3, and its packed with upgrades that competitive players and sim enthusiasts are going to love.

What the Leak Reveals

The leaked images, first spotted by Brazilian outlet Tecnoblog before making the rounds on Pure Xbox, TechRadar, and Windows Central, show a controller thats clearly evolutionary rather than revolutionary — but the new details matter a lot.

The biggest headline: two new scroll wheel-style inputs positioned near the base of the controller, underneath the headset jack. Their exact function isnt confirmed, but speculation is pointing toward chat mix balancing, weapon cycling in shooters, or throttle control for flight sims like Microsoft Flight Simulator. Either way, thats a seriously useful addition for anyone who games across multiple genres.

Cloud Mode Is a Real Feature Now

The leaked images also show a new pair button that toggles between local mode and cloud mode. This suggests Microsoft is building Xbox Cloud Gaming deeper into the hardware itself — switching to cloud mode would optimize the controllers wireless connection and latency profile specifically for streaming gameplay.

Thats a smart move. Cloud gaming has matured a lot, and giving players a hardware-level toggle to optimize for it is the kind of quality-of-life upgrade that makes a real difference during long sessions.

Full Spec Rundown

Wi-Fi 6 support for lower latency wireless
Bluetooth connectivity
3.5mm headset jack
Interchangeable D-Pad (same as Series 2)
Rear paddles (same as Series 2)
Trigger locks for shorter actuation in competitive play
Removable rechargeable battery pack

That last one is a big deal. The Elite Series 2 uses a built-in battery that degrades over time and is a pain to replace. The Series 3 appears to switch to a removable pack — and while reports suggest the capacity might be slightly smaller, the ability to hot-swap during a gaming session or just pop in a fresh pack without sending your controller in for service is a major win.

Why This Is a Big Upgrade Over Series 2

The Elite Series 2 launched back in 2019 and still sells for around $180. Its a fantastic controller, but age is showing — especially the battery situation and the lack of modern wireless features. Wi-Fi 6 support on the Series 3 should translate to noticeably more stable connections compared to the Series 2s Bluetooth-only setup, particularly in crowded wireless environments.

The scroll wheels are the wildcard. If Microsoft executes them well, they could become one of those features you cant imagine living without once youve used them. Flight sim players are already excited.

When Will It Be Official?

Regulatory filings like this typically precede an official announcement by weeks, not months. The Xbox Games Showcase on June 7 is the obvious moment — Microsoft has been known to bundle hardware announcements with their big summer showcase, and the timing lines up perfectly.

No pricing has leaked yet, but expect it to land above the Series 2s $180 MSRP. Premium controllers at this tier have been creeping up, and the Wi-Fi 6 chip and scroll wheel hardware arent cheap to add.

The Bottom Line

If these leaks are accurate — and regulatory filings are about as reliable as leaks get — the Xbox Elite Series 3 is shaping up to be the most feature-packed controller Microsoft has ever shipped. Scroll wheels, cloud mode, a removable battery, and Wi-Fi 6 all in one package is a compelling upgrade for anyone still rocking the Series 2.

Mark June 7 on your calendar. Thats when well almost certainly get the full picture.