This controller won't pair, won't connect, just keeps flashing a red light with zero response. But it might be the closest thing to the real Xbox Elite Series 3 that's leaked so far. Reddit user ssuberlex claims to have picked up this prototype unit for $200 on the resale platform OfferUp, and posted a series of photos showing "NOT FOR SALE" labels stamped on both the front and back, with all the regulatory certification numbers left as placeholders.
Back in May, images leaked from Brazilian regulator Anatel already hinted that the Elite 3 would add two new rollers on the bottom edge, support a second wireless mode for direct connection to Xbox Cloud Gaming servers, and include a "Pair Button" to toggle between server and console. This new set of prototype photos shows exactly where that button likely sits: right next to a small built-in screen that's never been seen before. What's shown on the screen closely matches the mode-switching diagram from May's leak, right down to a tiny XCloud rocket icon paired with an Xbox Series X console icon. In another photo, the screen displays a Microsoft cloud resource URL that the poster says they don't have permission to access—which, if anything, only adds credibility to the leak.
The rest of the controller largely lines up with what leaked back in May: four rear paddles, a removable battery pack, and a dedicated carrying case—though the D-pad design differs from what was previously shown. The poster also noted that locking the triggers into hair-trigger mode produces a satisfyingly crisp click.
Even more interesting than the screen is what's inside the battery compartment: a QR code that likely links to a repair page, alongside exposed, easy-to-access Torx T6 screws. For a premium controller aimed at competitive gamers, making "self-repairable" a visible part of the design language is the most concrete signal to come out of this leak. The battery inside is rated at 5.8 watt-hours and also carries a "NOT FOR SALE" label.
The Verge's Microsoft reporter Tom Warren says his sources indicate the controller is still on track for a release later this year. Whether it'll show up at Gamescom, as some have speculated, remains unconfirmed by Microsoft—pricing and an official reveal date are still nowhere to be found.
