Microsoft teases ‘all-new Xbox hardware’ announcement for next month

Microsoft is planning to attend Gamescom in Germany next month, and the company has new hardware to announce. The software maker is planning to hold a live stream for new features, news, and most importantly “all-new Xbox hardware and accessories” on August 21st. Microsoft doesn’t offer up any further hints in its blog post on exactly what new hardware will be announced, and the company even changed the wording from “all-new Xbox hardware and accessories” to “new Xbox One bundles and accessories” without acknowledging the change. Either way, it was never likely to be a next-generation Xbox console, as Microsoft’s next Xbox console is reportedly arriving in 2020.

Instead, Microsoft could finally unveil its Xbox Elite successor. The customizable controller has been a popular choice for Xbox gamers, and rumors from earlier year suggested a new version was on the way. Images leaked of the next Xbox Elite controller, complete with a USB-C port for charging, Bluetooth support for Windows 10, three-level Hair Trigger Locks, longer key travel for the paddles, and a three-profile switch. A new Xbox Elite controller would align with Microsoft’s hint of new accessories, but hopefully the company isn’t simply teasing new console bundles and colorful controllers.

Update, July 18th 1:20PM ET: Microsoft has changed the wording in its blog post without acknowledging the change, and this article has been updated to reflect the changes.