Xbox Series X controllers can unexpectedly disconnect and a fix is coming, Microsoft says

(Ian Gavan/Getty Images for Xbox UK)

Some new Xbox controllers will switch off unexpectedly, Microsoft has admitted, while confirming that it is working on a fix.

The Xbox Series X comes with its own new controller, which includes a range of subtle changes such as a new “share” button built-in. The improvements are such that as well as people with the new console, some players on PC or older consoles have bought it, too.

But players on a range of platforms have found that their controller appears to disconnect without warning or reason, leaving them unable to play their games.

The problem have led to a vast thread on Microsoft’s support forums, where hundreds o players have complained that their console has stopped working.

It is not clear how widespread the issue is. It is also not clear why it is actually happening, with some players complaining that their controllers only seem to break in particular games or at particular times.

Now Microsoft has confirmed that it is aware of the issue and working to fix it.

“At Microsoft, we put all of our products through rigorous quality assurance testing and are committed to providing customers with an unparalleled gaming experience,” the company said in a statement.

“We are aware some players may be experiencing disconnects with their new Xbox Wireless Controllers and our teams are actively working on a solution to be included in a future update.”

The company also advised people to ensure that their Xbox controller is updated to the latest firmware – which can be done by following instructions on the Microsoft website – and suggested that people visit the support.xbox.com site if they needed further assistance.

The issue also appears to be happening when the Series X controller is used with a Windows 10 PC over Bluetooth, according to Microsoft’s own website. It notes that players who use the controller that comes packaged with the new consoles might find there is “no button input”.

Again, it advises that users should update to the latest version of Windows, and then ensuring that their console is up to date too.