Xbox Series X / S to Launch With Next-Generation Accessories
- The new Xbox Wireless Controller will also come in blue (aside from black and white color options, as previously announced).
- PC games will get to pick from two bundles, depending on how they'd like to connect the new Xbox controller to their computer.
- Microsoft has also announced a rechargeable battery for the new controller, priced at $24.99.
It doesn't exactly come as a surprise to know that the upcoming Xbox Series X and Series S consoles will launch with new accessories. However, Microsoft has now unveiled some of the forthcoming Xbox accessories, while making those products already available for pre-order (starting September 22).
When it comes to the newly announced products, we have an Xbox Wireless Controller in a new color (Shock Blue), bundles allowing Windows 10 PC games to take advantage of the new controller, as well as an Xbox Rechargeable Battery. So, let's take a closer look.
New Color Options for Xbox Wireless Controllers
Upon the Xbox Series X's initial announcement, we caught a glimpse of Microsoft's new Xbox Wireless Controller – in Carbon Black. Then, the Xbox Series S was announced, alongside the controller in Robot White.
Related: The Xbox Series X & Xbox Series S Prices Leaked
As one could expect, Microsoft isn't stopping there. Just now, another color option has been announced, called Shock Blue. The company has also mentioned that two additional options will be available this November, but we'll have to wait for those announcements.
As the company describes its new Xbox controller, it comes with "the striking blue top case accented by the bold, black hybrid D-pad and ABXY buttons – softened by the crisp, white back case." We have to add that the new controller seems like a well-designed piece of hardware, with new color options making the controller even more eye-catching.
Related: Xbox Series S vs. Xbox Series X - Performance Comparison
The new Xbox Wireless Controller comes priced at $59.99. Therefore, there's no price increase this time around. As a reminder, Sony's DualSense controller will come priced at $69.99 and will be available alongside PlayStation 5.
PC Controller Bundles Are Now Available as Well
If you're a PC gamer interested in the Xbox ecosystem, you probably already own Microsoft's controller. Using Xbox's controllers with Windows 10 PCs has been a possibility for a long time now, so it doesn't come as a surprise that the new Xbox accessories will be available for PC as well.
When it comes to PC controller bundles, Microsoft plans on offering two options. However, both of those will currently come with the new Xbox Wireless Controller in Carbon Black only. There's the Controller + Wireless Adapter bundle, as well as the Controller + USB-C Cable bundle. Alternatively, you can also connect your new Xbox controller via Bluetooth.
Introducing the Xbox Rechargeable Battery
Finally, Microsoft also announced a rechargeable battery made for the new Xbox Wireless Controller. It comes with a USB-C cable, allowing you to charge your controller fully in under four hours. And of course, you won't need to disrupt your gaming session, as you can charge your controller while you play.
The Rechargeable Battery + USB-C cable will be available on November 10 in nearly all Xbox markets worldwide. Also, it will come priced at $24.99.
Xbox Design Lab Goes Offline October 14
Lastly, keep in mind that Microsoft has announced that the Xbox Design Lab will go offline on October 14. However, this service isn't discontinued. The company is most likely planning to overhaul the Xbox Design Lab, with a re-release date to be announced in 2021.
Considering that we're nearing this year's holiday season, know that you can still order a custom Xbox controller until October 13. However, make sure to act quickly, as not much time is left.