Microsoft is bringing nice firmware updates to the Xbox controller

Microsoft announced in a blog post that it is testing new firmware for Xbox controllers to ensure that the accessories people already have in their collections have multi-device connectivity similar to what Series X | S controllers currently offer.

“We think it’s important to maintain backward compatibility with the Xbox accessories that people already have in their collection and to ensure that we provide the best gaming experience, however you choose to play,” wrote Microsoft in Wednesday’s update.

The new firmware is reportedly being tested for Xbox one controllers with Bluetooth support, Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 and Xbox Adaptive Controllers, and will add Bluetooth Low Energy support, “Which provides better compatibility between devices and enables better pairing experiences” Microsoft noted.

Importantly, the update will also add cross-platform gaming functionality, which will allow users to pair controllers with two devices simultaneously – think of a Bluetooth host, like an iPad, and an Xbox Wireless host, like an Xbox console – for the better. very first time. time. According to Microsoft, this will improve the user experience by making it easier than ever to switch between an Xbox console and an iOS device.

“Increasingly, the controller will be your common point of contact with your Xbox games on all devices,” Microsoft wrote. “We’re investing in expanding Xbox games beyond the console, so Xbox controllers need to work on both Xbox consoles and Bluetooth devices, and moving between all of those devices needs to be easy.”

Updating the firmware will also fix lag issues by adding dynamic latency input, which provides controller input more efficiently to the Xbox controller itself for a more seamless and responsive gaming experience. According to Microsoft, the firmware update will be rolled out today for Alpha Skip-Ahead and Alpha users and will become available for other flight rings in the coming weeks.