The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →“Xbox will reportedly conduct another major round of layoffs next week” was a June 24, 2025 headline, not a current forecast. Engadget relayed a Bloomberg report that Xbox managers anticipated substantial cuts across the group, but neither the report nor Engadget gave a headcount or confirmed the cuts had happened. Separate Microsoft and Xbox announcements in 2026 documented later restructuring; they do not establish the outcome of that 2025 forecast.
What the June 2025 report actually said
Engadget published the headline on June 24, 2025, attributing the forecast to Bloomberg. Managers reportedly anticipated “substantial cuts across the entire group.” The report described expected action, not a completed layoff announcement, and named no affected studio or employee total. Engadget’s June 24, 2025 report
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“Next week” therefore referred to the week after that publication date. It should not be read as a prediction about October 2026.
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What Microsoft and Xbox announced in 2026
Later announcements provide context about restructuring, but they are separate events from the 2025 forecast.
#1 Best Overall
- MODERNIZED DESIGN — Experience the modernized design of the XBOX Wireless Controller with sculpted surfaces and updated geometry that enhances comfort and control during long gaming sessions.
- PRECISION PERFORMANCE — Stay on target with a hybrid D-pad and textured grips on triggers, bumpers, and back case for improved accuracy and handling.
- SHARE BUTTON: Seamlessly capture and share content such as screenshots, recordings, and more with the new Share button.
- VERSATILE CONNECTIVITY — Connect via USB-C for plug-and-play on console and PC, or quickly pair and switch between supported devices with XBOX Wireless and Bluetooth support.
- BUILT-IN AUDIO SUPPORT — Plug in compatible headsets using the 3.5mm audio jack for direct voice chat and immersive in-game sound.
Microsoft’s July workforce reduction
On July 6, 2026, Microsoft EVP and Chief People Officer Amy Coleman said the company was eliminating around 4,800 roles, about 2.1% of its global workforce. Microsoft said the changes fell mostly within Commercial and Xbox. Those are company-wide figures from 2026, not an estimate for the June 2025 report. Microsoft’s July 6, 2026 notice
Associated Press account of Xbox’s share
The Associated Press reported that 1,600 of the July 2026 reductions affected Xbox. It also reported that Asha Sharma, Xbox CEO, told employees further reductions were expected during that fiscal year. In the memo quoted by AP, Sharma said, “Our business today is not healthy,” and described Xbox’s margins as “3-10x lower than comparable platform and publishing businesses.” These statements explain the 2026 reset; they do not identify the number or timing of cuts forecast in 2025. Associated Press report on Microsoft and Xbox cuts
Rank #2
- Tri-mode Connectivity: Wired for Xbox, 2.4G & Wired for PC, and Bluetooth for Android. The G7 Pro supports seamless connectivity across Xbox, PC, and Android. Effortlessly switch between modes using the convenient physical mode switch.
- TMR Sticks: The G7 Pro features GameSir's Mag-Res TMR sticks, combining Hall Effect durability with traditional potentiometer performance. This advanced technology delivers stable polling rates for smooth, drift-free gaming with low power consumption.
- Hall Effect Analog Triggers: The GameSir precision-tuned Hall Effect analog triggers provide unmatched smoothness and linear input for precise control. Featuring clicky Micro Switch trigger stops, gamers can easily switch based on their preferences.
- 1000Hz Polling Rate on PC: Experience ultra-responsive gaming with a 1000Hz polling rate on PC, available through both wired and 2.4G wireless connections. This ensures instantaneous input registration, reducing lag and optimizing your performance for the most competitive gameplay.
- GameSir Nexus App: The G7 Pro is compatible with the upgraded GameSir Nexus app, which brings a significant upgrade over the original. It introduces powerful new features such as gyro settings, stick curve adjustments, and button-to-mouse mapping, giving you deeper customization and more control than ever before.
September studio updates
Xbox’s September 22, 2026 update described organizational changes and studio consultations. It said two agreements involving Ninja Theory had failed and consultation continued at Arkane. The update documents specific developments in 2026, but does not link them to the 2025 forecast. Xbox’s September 22, 2026 update
Did Xbox announce another round for the following week?
A Windows Central account of Xbox’s October 6, 2026 town hall covered the company’s broader reset but did not report a new layoff round scheduled for the following week. That is not confirmation that no future cuts will occur; it means this report does not substantiate that specific claim. Windows Central’s October 6, 2026 town hall coverage
Rank #3
- PLAY LIKE A PRO — The XBOX Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 features over 30 ways to play like a pro. Designed in collaboration with pro-level players, it puts exceptional performance, customization, and durability where it matters most.
- ADJUSTABLE-TENSION THUMBSTICKS — Fine-tune your aim with thumbsticks that let you adjust resistance for improved accuracy, consistency, and control in every match.
- SHORTER HAIR TRIGGER LOCKS — Fire faster and react quicker with three-step hair trigger locks that reduce pull distance for rapid input in competitive gameplay.
- INTERCHANGEABLE COMPONENTS — Swap thumbstick toppers, D-pads, and paddles to tailor your controller to your preferred gaming style. Includes 6 thumbsticks, 4 paddles, 2 D-pads, carrying case, and charging dock.
- SAVE AND SWITCH PROFILES — Save up to 3 custom profiles on the controller and switch between them on the fly with the dedicated Profile button. Even pick which color the XBOX button lights up as.
What remains unknown about the 2025 forecast
The available reports do not establish the exact timing, scope, or final outcome of the layoffs anticipated in June 2025. The original coverage supplied only the qualitative description “substantial cuts,” attributed to Bloomberg. No 2026 figure should be used to fill that gap, and the later restructuring should not be treated as proof that it was the same event.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- MODERNIZED DESIGN — Experience the modernized design of the XBOX Wireless Controller with sculpted surfaces and updated geometry that enhances comfort and control during long gaming sessions.
- PRECISION PERFORMANCE — Stay on target with a hybrid D-pad and textured grips on triggers, bumpers, and back case for improved accuracy and handling.
- SHARE BUTTON: Seamlessly capture and share content such as screenshots, recordings, and more with the new Share button.
- VERSATILE CONNECTIVITY — Connect via USB-C for plug-and-play on console and PC, or quickly pair and switch between supported devices with XBOX Wireless and Bluetooth support.
- BUILT-IN AUDIO SUPPORT — Plug in compatible headsets using the 3.5mm audio jack for direct voice chat and immersive in-game sound.
Rank #4
- XBOX ELITE WIRELESS CONTROLLER SERIES 2: Play like a pro with adjustable-tension thumbsticks, wrap-around rubberized grip, and shorter hair trigger locks..Audio : 3.5mm stereo headset jack. Also compatible with the Xbox One Stereo Headset Adapter and all other Xbox controller accessories made by Microsoft.
- CORE ESSENTIALS: Includes just the components you need to unleash your best game. Additional components sold separately for even more customization with the Complete Component Pack.
- LIMITLESS CUSTOMIZATION: Exclusive button mapping options in the Xbox Accessories app—even pick which color the Xbox button lights up with.*
- CUSTOM PROFILES: Save up to 3 custom profiles on the controller and switch between them on the fly.*
- EXTENDED GAMEPLAY: Stay in the game with up to 40 hours of battery life and refined components that are built to last.*
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