Why is the Xbox Nano controller trending today?
The Xbox Nano controller was officially announced today, offering a five‑inch, pocket‑friendly gamepad for $49.99. Its small size, rechargeable battery and Bluetooth/Xbox Wireless support make it appealing for on‑the‑go and cloud gaming.
What happened
- 14 Oct, 07:00 UTC
Microsoft officially announced the Xbox Nano controller, a five‑inch, rechargeable gamepad priced at $49.99 and slated to ship in November [1]
- Earlier
Leaks earlier in the year showed a prototype with a tiny screen, which was omitted from the final design [1]
What you need to know
It works with Xbox consoles, PCs, phones, tablets and cloud‑gaming devices via Bluetooth or Xbox Wireless.
The controller includes a programmable Action Button for shortcuts like screenshots.
It charges via USB‑C and does not use AA batteries.
Pre‑orders are open in the US, UK, Canada and Europe, with shipping beginning in November.
Exact battery life per charge and any future firmware updates have not been disclosed.
Background
Microsoft’s new Xbox Nano is the company’s smallest controller, measuring just over five inches—shorter than most smartphones. It retains the standard Xbox button layout while adding a programmable Action Button and a USB‑C port for charging [1].
The device is marketed toward younger players, people with smaller hands, and anyone who wants a portable controller for Xbox Cloud Gaming or local multiplayer sessions. It ships in a single white colour, with promotional partnerships offering free Game Pass trials for certain device owners [2].
Pricing is listed at $49.99 (US) and £44.99 (UK). One source mistakenly cites $499.99, which appears to be a typo, as the official price is $49.99 [1][2].
Questions people ask
Can the Xbox Nano be used with a TV’s built‑in Xbox Cloud Gaming app?
Yes, it pairs via Bluetooth or Xbox Wireless to any device that supports Xbox Cloud Gaming, such as smart TVs or streaming sticks.
Does the Nano need AA batteries like other Xbox controllers?
No, it has an internal rechargeable battery charged through a USB‑C cable.
Will the button layout be different from the standard Xbox controller?
The layout is the same, but the body is truncated; all standard buttons and thumbsticks are present.
Where this came from
Found through Google Trends and drafted with AI from at least two cited sources. Published automatically after passing our automated checks for sources, wording and safety. It may not have been reviewed by a person yet. Report a correction.