Microsoft has announced the XBOX Nano Controller, a pocket-sized controller designed for smaller hands, family gaming, and players who want something easier to carry.
Unveiled on October 14 by James Hunter, general manager of XBOX Accessories, the Nano costs $49.99 USD. Preorders open today, with availability beginning in November in the United States and dozens of other markets.
The controller includes all 18 standard gameplay inputs, a rechargeable battery, XBOX Wireless and Bluetooth connectivity, and a programmable Action Button. The pitch is simple: a smaller controller without giving up the familiar controls.
Microsoft’s smallest XBOX controller
The XBOX Nano Controller measures a little over 5 inches in length and weighs just 3.5 ounces. Microsoft describes it as its smallest controller and says it is lighter and shorter than most modern smartphones.
That smaller footprint is aimed at younger players, people with smaller hands, and anyone who would rather not carry a full-sized controller when traveling.
Microsoft also positions the Nano as an option for family multiplayer sessions, pointing to Minecraft Dungeons II as an example. The game supports two to four players in local and online co-op, making an extra controller useful when someone wants to join the action.
The important question is how the smaller design feels during longer sessions. Microsoft has shared the dimensions and weight, but those numbers cannot tell us whether the grips, sticks, and buttons will feel comfortable after an hour of playing.
Rechargeable battery and a programmable Action Button
Here is what Microsoft has confirmed about the XBOX Nano Controller:
- Price: $49.99 USD.
- Availability: Beginning in November, with preorders opening October 14.
- Size: A little over 5 inches in length.
- Weight: 3.5 ounces.
- Controls: All 18 standard gameplay inputs.
- Battery: Rechargeable.
- Connectivity: XBOX Wireless and Bluetooth.
- Extra feature: A programmable Action Button.
The Action Button can be assigned to functions such as taking screenshots, capturing gameplay, and accessing other frequently used shortcuts.
Microsoft has not provided battery-life estimates, charging times, or a complete compatibility list in the announcement. Those details will matter, especially for anyone buying the Nano primarily for travel.
A smaller controller for XBOX gaming on more screens
The Nano fits into a wider effort to make XBOX games accessible beyond a traditional console setup.
Microsoft has already expanded the XBOX app to Hisense and VIDAA OS TVs, giving players another way to access cloud gaming directly from a compatible television. A compact controller could be convenient for anyone bringing their gaming setup between different screens.
The company has also announced plans to bring the XBOX app to select TCL smart TVs in more than 25 countries, continuing that push toward playing without a dedicated console connected to every TV.
For players who prefer portable hardware, Microsoft and ASUS previously introduced the ROG XBOX Ally and Ally X, with options for native gaming, cloud gaming, and Remote Play. Those devices have their own controls, so the Nano serves a different purpose: bringing a separate controller to a compatible device or screen.
Microsoft has not confirmed that every device mentioned in its broader gaming ecosystem supports the Nano. Buyers should check compatibility rather than assume Bluetooth support guarantees every feature will work.
Samsung TV buyers will get a holiday bundle offer
Microsoft is teaming up with Samsung on a US holiday promotion that includes an XBOX Nano Controller and two months of Game Pass Ultimate for new members with the purchase of select Samsung TVs.
On supported TVs, players can access the XBOX app through Samsung Gaming Hub and connect a controller. Microsoft says players in select regions can use their monthly cloud playtime to play hundreds of Game Pass titles.
The announcement does not identify the qualifying TV models, exact promotion dates, or full redemption terms.
It is another example of Microsoft pairing controllers and subscriptions with screens people already own—or plan to buy—rather than requiring a console purchase first.
Meta Quest gets a separate Nano Controller offer
Microsoft is also preparing a US holiday offer with Meta. Buyers of a Meta Quest will be able to get an XBOX Nano Controller and a two-month Game Pass Ultimate subscription for new members.
The companies have worked together on Game Pass promotions before, including the Game Pass Starter Edition offer for eligible Meta Horizon+ subscribers. The Nano bundle is a separate promotion, so buyers should not assume the same eligibility rules or benefits apply.
Both newly announced holiday offers specify that the two-month Ultimate subscription is for new members. Existing subscribers should check the final terms before treating that subscription as part of the bundle’s value.
XBOX Nano Controller preorders open today
The XBOX Nano Controller is available to preorder starting October 14 for $49.99 USD.
Availability begins in November across markets including the United States, Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, and numerous countries in Europe, Asia, and Latin America. Additional markets will follow, and local pricing will vary.
Microsoft has not announced an exact November release date.
At $49.99, the Nano offers a straightforward alternative for players who want something smaller: familiar gameplay inputs, a rechargeable battery, and an extra customizable button. Whether it becomes a useful travel companion or a family’s go-to spare controller will come down to comfort, battery life, and compatibility—not just how easily it fits in a pocket.
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