Fix: New Xbox Wireless Controllers Not Working on Windows 10 and 11

To begin with, some Xbox Series X|S users have reported encountering issues when using their new Xbox Wireless Controllers with Windows 10 and 11 operating systems. A common problem experienced by these users is a lack of button input responsiveness in games when the controller is connected via Bluetooth. Numerous Xbox Series X or Series S owners have expressed concern about this frustrating issue. This article will explore several potential solutions to help you overcome this problem and enjoy a seamless gaming experience on your Windows 10 or 11 system.

It is important to note that this specific issue does not seem to affect Xbox One controller users. Microsoft is aware of the situation, and we can anticipate a fix from the company shortly. However, suppose you are a PC gamer using an Xbox Series X|S controller and are eager to resolve the issue without delay. In that case, we encourage you to follow the troubleshooting steps outlined below.

Fix: New Xbox Wireless Controllers Not Working on Windows 10 and 11

Sometimes it can possible an outdated Windows OS build, an outdated controller firmware, can cause multiple issues with the gameplay or connectivity or controls, etc.

1. Update Windows OS Build

Make sure to check whether the Windows system is running on the latest build or not. You can find or check it via Windows Settings.

1. Press the Win key on your keyboard to open up the Start menu.
2. Now, click on Settings > Select Update & Security.
3. Under the Windows Update section, click on Check for updates.
4. If the update is available, just Download and Install it.
5. Wait for the process to complete and then reboot your PC.

However, if there is no major update available, try checking ‘View optional updates’. Once you’re on the latest Windows build, you should check whether your controller firmware is up-to-date or not. You can check additional updates from the Xbox Accessories application on your PC.

2. Check Update History

If you want to check your Windows build update history then do the following:

1. Click on the Start menu > Click on Settings.
2. Select Update & Security > Click on Windows Update.
3. Click on View update history. If your KB number for your OS Build is higher than the mentioned details below then you’ve already updated properly.
4. To check the installed OS version, go to Settings > System > About.

Supported Windows Build Numbers:

• For 2004: 10C Win 10 2004 (20H1)
  • Version: 2004-OS Build 19041.610 and 20H2-OS Build 19042.610
  • Requires: KB 4580364
    
• For 1909: 10C Win 10 1909 (19H2)
  • Version: 1903-OS Build 18362.1171 and 1909-OS Build 18363.1171
  • Requires: KB 4580386
    
• For 1903: 10C Win 10 1903 (19H1)
  • Version: 1903-OS Build 18362.1171 and 1909-OS Build 18363.1171
  • Requires: KB 4580386
• For 20H2: 10C Win 10 20H2 (20H2)
  • Version: 2004-OS Build 19041.610 and 20H2-OS Build 19042.610
  • Requires: KB 4580364

3. Update Controller using Xbox Accessories app

Without updating your Xbox Series X|S controller, it’ll be worthless to only update the Windows OS build. So, both need to be updated to their latest version for seamless and bug-free connectivity.

1. First, you’ll need to download and install the Xbox Accessories app on your PC via the Microsoft Store.
2. Next, connect your new Xbox controller to the PC. If already connected, re-plug it to get detected by the system. For further queries, you can check this thread.
3. Now, update your controller by using the Xbox Accessories app that can be labeled with ‘Update on PC’. However, if that didn’t help you, try a USB or Wireless method to update the controller by following the steps below:

# Update via USB

• If you have a stereo headset adapter then plug it into the bottom of your Xbox Series X|S controller.
• If you’re already using a stereo headset adapter, plug in a headset (should be plugged in to turn on the adapter).
• Connect the USB cable to the USB port of the Xbox Series X|S.
  • Xbox Series X users can use the port which is placed on the front right below the Pair button.
  • Xbox Series S users can use the port that’s placed on the front left next to the Pair button.
• Now, plug in the other end of the USB cable to the top of the controller.
• The update installation Instructions should appear automatically. So, follow the on-screen instructions & don’t disconnect the USB cable during the update progress.
• Wait for the process to complete.

However, if the instructions to install for the update don’t appear automatically, try the manual process. Check the steps below for that:

1. Press the Xbox button on your controller to open the Guide.
2. Select Profile & system > Choose Settings.
3. Select Devices & connections > Accessories.
4. Next, choose the controller whichever you want to update.
5. You’ll need to select “…” from the Xbox Wireless Controller screen to check the firmware version of your controller. If the “Update” option is displayed, select the Firmware version.
6. Follow the steps completely to update it.

# Update Wirelessly

If your Xbox Series X|S controller has a 3.5mm audio port placed on the bottom then you can try updating the controller via a wireless method.

1. If you have a stereo headset adapter, plug it into the bottom of your controller to get updates.
2. If you’re using a stereo headset adapter, plug in a headset (should be plugged in to turn on the adapter).
3. Press the Xbox button on your controller to open the Guide.
4. Select Profile & system > Settings.
5. Choose Devices & connections > Accessories > Select the controller that you want to update.
6. Select “…” to check the firmware version of your controller on the Xbox Wireless Controller screen.
7. If the “Update” option is available, select the Firmware version.
8. Finally, follow the on-screen steps and you’ll be good to go.

4. Use Steam Beta Client

If in case, you’re having issues with the Steam client while playing various games on your PC with the Xbox Series X|S controller, then you should try the Steam Beta client on your computer. Once the installation or update is done, just restart your PC and try running Steam games via the new Xbox controller.

That’s it, guys. We assume this guide was helpful to you. For further queries, feel free to ask in the comment below.