Xbox One Controller Firmware Rolling Out to Preview Program

A firmware update for the Xbox One controller is rolling out to Preview Program participants, fixing widely reported connection issues.

Rod Trent

January 27, 2015

2 Min Read
Xbox One Controller Firmware Rolling Out to Preview Program

SuperSite's Richard Hay recently highlighted rumored concerns over excessive wear for Xbox One controllers. And, after watching the comments flow through, it appears those concerns aren't just rumors, but many are experiencing real problems with noticeable damage from prolonged use. We're not sure if the issues is widespread enough to warrant replacements yet, but we'll keep an eye out for movement in that area.

But, physical damage is one thing. The Xbox One controller is a technological accomplishment, when you think about it. It doesn't have as much tech oomph inside as the gaming system itself, but it is clearly stacked with tech and powered by software. This allows Microsoft to deliver firmware updates for the controller to make improvements, add functions, and fix bugs.

Over time, of course, annoyance creep can set in when things don't work right or function as expected. One of the most reported issues so far is that the Xbox One controller will just stop communicating with the console for no reason. The issue has led to a long instruction page that provides steps to troubleshoot why the connection was lost. It can be frustrating, particularly when that page doesn't provide a true resolution. So, based on feedback and issue complaints, Microsoft is making its latest Xbox One controller firmware update available, which does include a connection fix. The update is available only for those in the Preview Program now, but is on track to be available to all others soon.

Released on Monday to those part of the Xbox Preview Program, here's what's included in the firmware update:

  • Quick Connect – previous controller connections to an Xbox One took 4-5 seconds when powering on a controller, now they should occur in ~2 seconds

  • Stability improvements – the firmware also provides a number of fixes that address issues submitted by customers and preview participants

How to update:

  1. Connect a controller to your Xbox One with a USB cable.  Keep any headsets connected to the controller.

  2. Connect to Xbox Live.

  3. Press the Menu

  4. Go to Settings > Devices & accessories.  Select the controller. If you have multiple controllers attached, you can select Buzz – which will cause the selected controller to vibrate.

  5. Then select Update to download the new firmware to the controller attached via the USB cable, and the screen will show the Updating controller … progress screen

  6. When you see the Controller updated screen, press ‘B’ to go back to the Devices & accessories main page

  7. Reselect the controller, the Firmware version, should now be: 1.2.2236.0

 

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