Brazilian regulator Anatel unintentionally released certification photos of Microsoft’s next‑gen gamepad, prompting a scramble on local site Tecnoblog and a quick repost by The Verge. The images reveal the upcoming Xbox Elite Controller 3, the first major refresh since the 2019 launch. Leaks suggest Microsoft is gearing up for a summer reveal, but the regulator’s slip hints the hardware may already be in final testing.

Two thumb‑operated scroll wheels sit at the controller’s base, promising finer inventory management in shooters and strategy titles. A dedicated front‑panel pairing button appears to toggle between local Bluetooth and Xbox Cloud Gaming modes, while the D‑pad receives a geometry overhaul for more precise inputs. Most importantly, the unit swaps the old AA battery pack for a removable, rechargeable cell.

The leak arrives just months after the Elite 2 received Design Lab customizations in 2022, and ahead of Microsoft’s anticipated summer showcase. If the regulator’s paperwork is accurate, retailers could see stock arrive before the event, forcing Microsoft to confirm pricing and availability sooner rather than later. Either way, gamers now have a concrete look at the next iteration’s tactile upgrades.