Big Xbox Controller Improvements Are On the Way

Summary

A new Xbox update addresses controller issues like thumbstick calibration and headset disconnections for Alpha Skip-Ahead users.
The update also includes fixes for dynamic background errors, Home Screen navigation, and more to improve the overall user experience.
Known issues like audio problems and network connectivity are being investigated.

Xbox is currently testing an update that will address some of the lingering problems with its line of Wireless Controllers. Microsoft introduced a new controller with its Xbox Series X/S consoles, but didn't reinvent the wheel with the design. The new Xbox controller is very similar to the Xbox One controller, but with a slightly revamped shell and the Share button smack-dab in the middle.

For the most part, the Xbox Series X/S controllers have been well-received. Not only do they carry on the popular design of the Xbox One controller, but they have also been noted for their versatility, proving to be a popular choice among PC gamers. But while the Xbox controllers are beloved by many, they are certainly not without their issues. Luckily, it seems some of the more frustrating Xbox controller issues are being addressed in the near future.

Alpha Skip-Ahead users, individuals who have volunteered to test Xbox console updates and features before they're released to the public, can now download a new firmware update targeting the Xbox Wireless Controllers. The update is specifically looking to improve thumbstick calibration and prevent disconnections when gamers are using wired headset. Eligible gamers will be prompted to update their controllers as soon as they turn their system on, but they can also manually install the update through the Xbox Accessories App.

The Xbox controller improvements are the headline in this new update, but there is more for Alpha Skip-Ahead users to check out as well. The new Xbox console update is also fixing an error tied to dynamic backgrounds, a problem when navigating the Home Screen, and more. Needless to say, Xbox gamers who download the new update should be able to expect a smoother experience when using their console.

There are still some issues that the new update has yet to address, but they will hopefully be tackled sooner rather than later. Some of the known problems Xbox hopes to fix in future updates include lingering audio issues, problems with capturing and sharing content, various OneGuide issues, and a problem where Xbox consoles don't connect to the Internet as soon as they are turned on.

As a reminder, this new Xbox console update and the associated ontroller firmware update will only be available to Alpha Skip-Ahead users at first. Other Xbox gamers will have to wait for the update to be released to the masses, though it's unclear exactly when that might happen. In the meantime, Xbox gamers are encouraged to report any technical problems to Microsoft, with the hope that they will be addressed in future system updates.

System Update Details

OS Version: XB_FLT_2408GE\26094.1507.240331-2200
Available: 2 p.m. PT – April 3, 2024
Mandatory: 3 a.m. PT – April 4, 2024

New Features and Experiences

We have exciting news! Alpha Skip-Ahead users can expect something new coming to their Xbox Update Preview.

Controllers

We’re releasing a new version of the Xbox Wireless Controller firmware today which contains various fixes, including improvements to thumbstick calibration and unexpected disconnections when using a wired headset.

If your controller needs an update, you will be prompted to install it once the controller is powered on and connects to your console. You can also open the Xbox Accessories App to install the update manually if you missed or dismissed the prompt.

Fixes Included

Thanks to all the great feedback Xbox Insiders provide and the hard work of Xbox engineers, we are happy to announce the following fixes have been implemented with this build:

Backgrounds

Fixes to address an unexpected error when attempting to set a new dynamic background.

Game Clubs

Fixed an unexpected ‘Like’ tooltip that could appear in the Watch area when focus is on the filter.

Home

Fixes to address some tiles on Home not navigating as expected, such as when trying to claim Perks.

Settings – Access Restrictions

Fixed an issue where disabling installing apps and games would not always behave as expected.

System

Various stability and performance fixes.
Various updates to properly reflect local languages across the console.
- Note: Users participating in Preview may see “odd” text across the console. To learn more visit: What’s This? Learn More About Pseudo-Loc in Preview.

Known Issues

While known issues may have been listed in previous Xbox Insider Release Notes, they are not being ignored! However, it may take Xbox engineers more time to find a solution. If you experience any of these issues, we ask that you please follow any guidance provided and file feedback with Report a Problem.

Audio

Some users have reported experiencing intermittent audio issues across the dashboard, games, and apps.
- Troubleshooting: If you do experience issues, please confirm your TV and all other equipment have the latest firmware installed. If you are unsure, you may need to contact the manufacturer for assistance. You can also find additional troubleshooting tips here: Troubleshoot audio on your Xbox console.
- Feedback: If you continue to experience issues after applying the latest firmware and troubleshooting further, please submit feedback via Report a Problem when you are experiencing the issue. Use the “Reproduce with advanced diagnostics” option, then select the category “Console experiences” and “Console Audio Output Issues”.
  - Note: Be sure to include as much information as possible about the issue, when it started, your setup, troubleshooting you have completed, and any additional information that will help us reproduce the issue.

Capture & Share

We have received reports of unexpected behavior when viewing HDR screenshots in the Captures app, and we are investigating.

Networking

We are investigating reports of an issue where the console may not connect to the network immediately on boot. If you experience this, be sure to report the issue via Report a Problem as soon as you’re able.
- Workaround: Wait a minute or two for the connection to establish. If your console still hasn’t connected, restart your Xbox from the Power Center or the guide then file feedback with Report a Problem. Learn more about restarting here: How to restart or power cycle your Xbox console.

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