Xbox recently released a high-end controller, the Elite Series 2, for its current generation consoles. The controller features a number of customization options designed to improve the gameplay experience.
The Xbox Elite Series 2 controller was launched last September and improved on the standard gamepad that comes with the Series X/S consoles. The controller adds interchangeable thumbsticks, a swappable D-Pad, and programmable side triggers that could be customized to a player’s liking.
However, one company sees an opportunity to take it a step higher.
Turtle Beach has filed a new patent for a new Xbox controller that adds a built-in touch screen that adds a ton of functionality. Gamers can use the new controller to track and display their performance in competitive titles. The new controller design also allows players to save custom controller loadouts and audio options.
The new controller from Turtle Beach also has connectivity functionality. Players can access social media through the controller. Players can also see battery percentages, user names, and other useful information.
The patent also suggests that the controller has connectivity to mobile devices via a dedicated app. Hopefully, this new controller will also feature Discord integration which was just recently implemented on the Xbox.
The design looks similar to the ASUS ROG Raikiri Pro controller for the Xbox Series X/S. The Raikiri features a small OLED display on the top part of the controller allowing players to view status indicators, and switch profiles on the fly.
However, the Turtle Beach controller looks to have a bigger touchscreen display than the ASUS. Based on the patent, it may be similar in size to the touchpad on the PlayStation Dual Sense controller.
Microsoft filed a patent in December for an Xbox controller with an LCD screen. However, Microsoft’s patent filing shows that the screen does not have touch functionality and only indicates if the controller is paired to an Xbox Series console.
The Turtle Beach patent does not indicate if the controller is for the current generation Xbox Series X/S or for a newer generation console. As with most patent filings, it will remain to be seen if this new design becomes a prototype or even makes it into production. However, most patent designs do not make it into production and are just used as a proof of concept.
If this new controller makes it into production, it will be interesting to see how new game developers take advantage of the touchscreen feature.
