Microsoft’s miniature Xbox controller can connect directly to Xbox Cloud Gaming over Wi-Fi.Microsoft’s miniature Xbox controller can connect directly to Xbox Cloud Gaming over Wi-Fi.Nov 3, 2026, 5:16 PM UTCPhoto: Tom Warren / The VergeMicrosoft is about to launch its new Xbox Nano controller tomorrow, and the tiny device has a little secret. The Nano can connect directly to Xbox Cloud Gaming over Wi-Fi to improve latency. It’s a feature Microsoft hasn’t officially announced yet, but one I’ve been anticipating since the Xbox Nano leaked earlier this year.The Nano will be able to connect directly to Microsoft’s cloud servers to reduce latency, much like how Google’s Stadia controllers used to work. This new cloud connect feature for the Nano is being privately tested on the new Xbox Cloud Gaming website, and it will require you to pair the controller over Wi-Fi to Microsoft’s Xbox Cloud Gaming servers using the Xbox mobile app.The new Xbox Cloud Gaming website will let you connect a Nano controller to the cloud.Screenshot: MicrosoftI’m expecting Microsoft to announce this as a preview for the new Xbox Nano controller soon, before it’s fully supported across Xbox Cloud Gaming on the web and on smart TVs. I first started reporting that Microsoft was planning a new controller with Wi-Fi connectivity to reduce Xbox Cloud Gaming latency earlier this year. I’d expect the upcoming Xbox Elite 3 controller will also have the same functionality.Microsoft had also planned to introduce a direct-to-cloud feature on a new Xbox controller, codenamed Sebile, as part of an Xbox Series X refresh console in 2024. The refresh console was canceled, and it’s not clear when we’ll eventually see a new Xbox wireless controller with direct cloud functionality.Follow topics and authors from this story to see more like this in your personalized homepage feed and to receive email updates.Tom WarrenThe Verge DailyA free daily digest of the news that matters most.Email (required)By providing your information, you agree to our Terms of Use and our Privacy Policy. We use vendors that may also process your information to help provide our services. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
The Xbox Nano has a hidden cloud secret
