Reddit user shares photos of apparent Xbox Elite 3 prototype pad
A Redditor claims to have bought a prototype Xbox Elite Series 3 controller for $200 on OfferUp, revealing a previously unseen built-in screen. The photos also show new scroll wheels, extra rear paddles and repair-friendly design features.
A Reddit user going by ssuberlex has posted photos that appear to show a prototype of the unannounced Xbox Elite Series 3 controller, claiming to have purchased it on OfferUp for $200.
The images reveal a small built-in screen that hadn't been seen before. In May, leaked images from a Brazilian regulator already indicated the upcoming controller would feature two scroll wheels on its bottom edge, a second wireless mode for connecting directly to Xbox Cloud Gaming servers, and a new pairing button to switch between modes. The photos now suggest that button may sit right beside the built-in screen, and the screen's display appears to match the mode-switching diagram from the earlier leak.
One photo shows the screen displaying a URL leading to a Microsoft cloud resource that isn't publicly accessible, lending the images extra credibility. However, the Redditor says the controller doesn't actually work — it fails to pair either wirelessly or via cable, with only a blinking red light.
Other photos show the new scroll wheels, four rear paddles, the battery compartment, a carrying case, and a detachable D-pad design that differs from the one seen in the May leak. The user notes the triggers click audibly when locked into the hair-trigger position.
One of the most notable details is a QR code found inside the battery compartment, likely linking to a repair guide, along with accessible Torx T6 screws — suggesting Microsoft is designing the controller to be more easily repaired at home.
The device is clearly marked as a prototype, with "NOT FOR SALE" labels on both the controller and its removable 5.8 watt-hour battery, plus placeholder identification numbers for various regulatory bodies. The Verge's Microsoft reporter Tom Warren says his sources indicate the controller is still expected to launch later this year.
