Xbox One S Controller Connectivity Issue

There is no Bluetooth radio component in the Xbox One S console itself.

The controllers connect to the Xbox One S the same way the controllers connect to the original Xbox One: proprietary RF. You could technically connect an Xbox One S controller to an original Xbox One, and an original Xbox controller to the Xbox One S.

The Bluetooth functionality in the new Xbox One S controller is specifically made for connecting the controller to a Windows 10 PC with the "Anniversary" update, which has the drivers needed for the controller when connected via Bluetooth.

You can use a regular Xbox One controller on an Xbox One S console, and you can use an Xbox One S controller on a regular Xbox One console.

All controllers connect to the Xbox console the same way, via proprietary RF.

If you are confused because of the addition of Bluetooth in the Xbox One S, just know that Bluetooth is only built into the Xbox One S controller (there is actually no bluetooth functionality in the Xbox One S console itself). The Bluetooth in the controller
is just a secondary method of wireless connectivity designed solely for connecting the controller to a Windows 10 PC via Bluetooth (without the need of a
USB adapter). It connects to the Xbox One/One S the same way as the original controllers do.

Yes, absolutely.

In case there's confusion, the Bluetooth part in the controller is only for connecting it to a Windows PC. Bluetooth is not used on the Xbox One S, as the console does not actually have a Bluetooth chip.

The Xbox One S controller still connects to the console with the same wireless protocol as any standard Xbox One controller.

It even works vice versa! You can also connect a regular Xbox One controller to an Xbox One S.

Hey Nicola,

Thanks for keeping us updated. What model controller do you have? The Xbox one generation or the Xbox one S generation controller? Currently, only the Xbox one S and X controllers have Bluetooth capability. You may also want to check out this link if you
haven't already :
Connect and troubleshoot Bluetooth on your Xbox One Wireless Controller

Hello Rob M, My name is Khaji I am an independent advisor and I will be happy to help you today.

I'm sorry to hear that you're experiencing issues with your Xbox One S controller and the prompt to switch to a keyboard and mouse, let's try the follow to solve this problem:

1. Connect your controller to the Xbox One S using a USB cable and check for any available updates. To update the controller, go to the Xbox Accessories app on your console and follow the instructions to update the firmware if an update is available.

2. Try re-syncing the controller with your Xbox One S. To do this, press and hold the Xbox button on the controller until it turns off. Then, press and hold the pairing button on the front of the Xbox One S console until the Xbox button on the controller starts flashing. Allow them to sync, and the controller should reconnect.

3. Ensure that the batteries in your controller have enough charge. If the battery is low, it may cause connectivity issues. Try using fresh batteries or connect the controller to the console using a USB cable to eliminate any battery-related problems.

4. Keep other wireless devices, such as routers or smartphones, away from the Xbox One S console. These devices can sometimes interfere with the controller's signal, causing connectivity problems.

5. Perform a power cycle of your Xbox One S by turning it off, unplugging the power cord, waiting for a few minutes, and then plugging it back in. Turn on the console and see if the issue persists.

6. If you're using a wired controller, try connecting it to a different USB port on the console. This can help identify if the issue is with the USB port itself.

Thank you very much for your patience and understanding! If you need anything else, do not hesitate to contact us again.