Microsoft will be releasing a new firmware update for Xbox One controllers, which will add a few new features that are present in Xbox Series X/S controllers. The Xbox line of systems is backward and forward compatible with controllers, meaning Xbox One controllers work on Xbox Series X/S and vice-versa. This is in direct contrast to PlayStation, as the PS5 DualSense controller doesn't work on PS4.

The Xbox Series X/S controller doesn't have as many new features as the DualSense, but it's still a well-received gamepad in terms of comfort and function. The Xbox Series X/S controller has a dedicated Share button, which makes it easier to take screenshots and record videos to be shared online on the console, similar to the DualShock 4 and DualSense controllers. Beyond that, the Xbox Series X/S controller didn't add much, but it has excellent connectivity with a multitude of devices and is still considered to be the best choice for PC gaming. One change that some didn't take well was a slight reduction in overall size, with some users reporting that holding an Xbox Series X/S controller is painful.

Related: Can You Play Xbox Series X Games On Xbox One?

The Xbox One controllers aren't facing retirement just yet. Microsoft has announced on the official Xbox website that Xbox One controllers with Bluetooth support, Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2, and Xbox Adaptive Controllers will be receiving an update that will add features present in the Xbox Series X/S controllers. These will be added via firmware updates, which will be made available to Alpha Skip-Ahead and Alpha users on Xbox Insider today, with a general rollout planned for the weeks ahead.

Xbox One X and controller

The new features for the old controllers include Bluetooth Low Energy, which will make it easier to use the controller with multiple devices. This function allows people to use the controller to easily hook up to Windows 10 PCs, iOS 15+, and Android devices, with the controller remembering one Bluetooth host and one Xbox host. The player will be able to switch between these by tapping the Pair button twice. Microsoft is making a big push for people to use Xbox Game Pass on multiple devices, and having one dedicated controller across multiple devices will make this easier. The controllers will also add Dynamic Latency Input, which will make the controller respond faster to inputs. This will be an essential upgrade for fans of fighting games and first-person shooters, where reaction times are everything.

The backward/forward compatibility feature of Xbox controllers is a godsend to the couch gamers of the world, as it means they can keep using their old controllers for as long as they function, without needing to shell out extra for more on day one. The Xbox controllers are already some of the best in the business, and the older models aren't going to be left behind like the DualShock 4.

Next: PS5, Xbox Series X/S Chip Shortage Likely To Last Another Year

Source: Xbox