How to Update Xbox Series X or S Controller Firmware

This article explains how to update your Xbox Series X or S controller and how to check for an Xbox controller update. On iOS? You can connect an Xbox Series X or S controller to an iPhone.

How To Update Xbox Series X or S Controller Firmware With a New Console

When you first set up your Xbox Series X or S console, your console checks for controller updates as soon as it first connects. Here's what to do during the process.

1. Press and hold the Guide button on your Xbox controller to turn it on.

2. When prompted, press the A button on your controller.

3. Select Update Controller.

4. Wait for the update to finish and select Next.

How to Update Xbox Series X or S Controller Firmware With a New Controller

When you buy a new controller or connect an existing one for the first time in a while, you may be asked to update the controller. Here's how to do it from the Xbox Series X or S dashboard.

1. Turn your Xbox controller on by holding down the middle Guide button until it's glowing and flashing.

2. Press the Sync button on the top of the controller until the lights flash.

3. Press the Sync button on your Xbox Series X or S console.

   Note:

   It's located at the front of the console.

4. Wait for the console and controller to sync up. The lights on the controller will turn solid when this occurs.

5. The Xbox Series X or S dashboard will display a message stating that an update is needed.

6. Select Update to update your controller.

7. The process usually only takes a few moments.

   Note:

   Do not move or use the controller while the update completes.

How to Update Xbox Series X or S Controller Firmware Manually

Sometimes, a controller needs an update but it isn't auto-detected by the Xbox Series X or S console. Here's how to manually check for any firmware updates that are required.

1. Press the glowing Xbox Guide symbol in the middle of your controller.

2. Scroll to the right to Profile & System.

3. Select Settings with the A button. 

4. Scroll down to Devices & connections.

5. Select Accessories with the A button on your controller.

6. Scroll down to the three dot menu symbol and select it with the A button.

7. Select Firmware version.

8. Click Update Now.

9. Wait for the update to complete.

10. Click Next.

    Note:

    Do not move or use the controller while the update completes.

Why Do I Need to Update My Controller?

Controller updates don't happen very often but they're well worth performing. Typically, a controller update fine tunes your experience, improving the controller such as by reducing the lag between the controller and the console.

Past updates have also added support for the stereo headset adapter in older controllers so it's likely we'll see similar additions in the future.