Xbox Nano Controller: Microsoft’s pocket-sized pad is $49.99 and ships in November

Microsoft is introducing the Xbox Nano Controller, a compact pad built for smaller hands, younger players and play on the go, Xbox Wire announced today. At a little over five inches long and 3.5 ounces, Microsoft calls it its smallest controller — lighter and shorter than most modern smartphones — while keeping the familiar layout with all 18 standard gameplay inputs.

Price, pre-order and shipping

The Nano is priced at $49.99 USD. Pre-orders begin today, with availability from November in a long list of markets including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Japan, Australia, much of Europe and Latin America, plus additional territories listed by Xbox Wire. Pricing and availability vary by country.

Microsoft positions the pad as an approachable way to share family and local co-op games — naming examples such as Minecraft Dungeons II (up to four players) and taking titles like Forza Horizon 6 beyond the living room.

Battery, connectivity and Action Button

Unlike many Xbox controllers that rely on AA batteries or a separate charge pack, the Nano includes a rechargeable battery. It supports Xbox Wireless and Bluetooth for consoles, PCs, phones and tablets. A programmable Action Button can be mapped to shortcuts such as screenshots and gameplay capture.

Earlier leaks showed a tiny status screen; that screen is not part of the shipping model covered by The Verge’s report on the announcement. Xbox Wire’s own post does not mention a screen.

Holiday bundles

In the US, Microsoft says it is teaming with Samsung (select TVs) and Meta (Quest) on holiday offers that include an Xbox Nano Controller and two months of Game Pass Ultimate for new members. Details and eligibility are set by those partner promotions.

For players who want a full-size feel, the standard Xbox Wireless Controller remains the usual choice; the Nano is aimed at portability and smaller hands, not at replacing every living-room pad.