Xbox Tests Compact Cloud Controller With a Hidden Feature

WHO:

Engadget - Xbox is testing two new controller options for Xbox Cloud Gaming.

Pure Xbox - The Xbox Nano Controller is a compact controller designed for portability and people with smaller hands.

The Verge - Microsoft and the Xbox team announced two preview features: cloud connect for the Nano controller and a phone-as-controller option for smart TVs.

The Verge - Players in the US can preview cloud connect on the Nano; players outside the US can preview the phone-controller option on smart TVs.

WHAT:

Pure Xbox - The Nano costs £44.99 / $49.99 and is described as the smallest Xbox-branded controller to date.

Pure Xbox - The Nano can connect directly to Xbox Cloud Gaming over Wi-Fi, a feature compared with Google Stadia controllers.

Pure Xbox - Windows Central believes the technology may be included in “all future Xbox controllers.”

The Verge - Microsoft said cloud connect uses Wi-Fi to connect directly to the server running a game rather than using Bluetooth to connect to a TV, which “can help reduce input latency, so gameplay may feel more responsive.”

The Verge - The smart-TV phone-controller feature allows people to use Xbox Cloud Gaming without a dedicated Bluetooth controller.

The Verge - Microsoft said both experiences are still being tested and that availability and supported games or devices may be limited during the beta.

Pure Xbox - Reviewers described the Nano as easy to set up, pocketable, comfortable for small hands, and suitable for travel; one reviewer said they would use full-size gamepads at home.

WHERE:

The Verge - Cloud connect is available as a preview to players in the US; the phone-controller preview is for players outside the US on smart TVs.

The Verge - Xbox Cloud Gaming is accessed through its website for the smart-TV phone-controller feature.

WHY:

The Verge - Cloud connect is intended to reduce input latency and potentially make gameplay more responsive.

Pure Xbox - The Nano’s compact size and portability make it suitable for travel and gamers with smaller hands.

HOW:

The Verge - Nano owners need the Xbox beta app for Android or the Xbox Accessories app on PC to set up cloud connect.

The Verge - To enable phone control on a smart TV, users toggle preview features in Xbox Cloud Gaming’s Settings > Account section.

Pure Xbox - The Nano is just over 5 inches long; its ABXY buttons and thumbsticks are smaller than those on a regular Xbox controller, while its D-pad and central Xbox button are unchanged.

(UPDATED November 5, 2026 02:02 UTC)

Microsoft is testing two Xbox Cloud Gaming controls, including direct Wi-Fi connection for its compact Nano controller. That connection may reduce lag; the Nano is designed for travel and smaller hands. Outside the US, players can test using phones as controllers for Xbox Cloud Gaming on smart TVs.