A select batch of new Xbox controllers sent without a very important item included in the package, without including any batteries for the controllers. The mispackaged Xbox controllers have already seen an official statement from Microsoft about the error.
Xbox fans have no shortage of options when choosing new controllers for Microsoft's Xbox Series X/S, with different colors, styles and more. Microsoft's product range includes a wide range of colors for shoppers to customize the look of their Xbox set, from standard black and white controllers to colorful options like Volt, Pink, Green and more. The company even offers some premium Xbox controllers with more customization options with its Xbox Elite controllers, including adjustable thumbsticks, an interchangeable D-pad, and multiple paddles to adjust the feel of bumpers and trigger buttons. However, some new Xbox controllers have excluded a very important item from the packages.
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New Xbox controllers shipped without batteries
Xbox gamers have discovered that some recently shipped Xbox Series X/S controllers arrived in stores without batteries. Reddit user BroChillCatPills discovered the change after purchasing a set of Xbox controllers, noting that the box for the controller even lacked a proper place to store batteries. The disgruntled fan also claimed that the change to remove batteries from the packaging could have been a deliberate change from Xbox, citing the clear and obvious adjustment to the packaging. Another Xbox player noted in the comment that Microsoft has fixed the faulty controls, provided a fix and free rechargeable batteries to affected consumers.
The exclusion of batteries from new Xbox controllers has seen a variety of reactions from fans. A Reddit user who works at GameStop relayed that the issue was the result of a production error, with stores being told to “reset” their supply of AA batteries for customers who bought the controllers. Microsoft's statement also provides a range for when the battery-less controllers shipped to stores, affecting devices shipped starting in December 2025. Many Xbox players also suggested that users who have experienced the controller issue should purchase rechargeable batteries, with one even suggesting Panasonic Eneloop batteries.
The new Xbox number joins a slew of executive-level changes for Microsoft's gaming brand, with new leadership in place. Both Microsoft Gaming head Phil Spencer and Xbox president Sarah Bond left the company in February, with Spencer being one of the faces of Xbox during his time with the company. Asha Sharma was named the new CEO of Microsoft Gaming on February 23, following Spencer's departure, while Matt Booty was named Xbox's new Chief Content Officer.
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Xbox's new leadership takes the reins of the company on the cusp of an exciting year. Microsoft is preparing to debut an all-new remake of one of its most iconic games of all time, with Halo: Campaign Evolved rework the original Halo. Another favorite Xbox series will also return in 2026 after more than a decade, with Fable planned to launch as a complete reboot of the classic Lionhead Studios RPG series. Xbox gamers should have a lot to look forward to for the rest of the year, with big things coming from the company.
