A Controller Leak Worth Taking Seriously
The Xbox Elite 3 leak gives us the clearest look yet at Microsoft’s next premium gamepad. A Redditor claims they bought a prototype controller for $200 on OfferUp. The photos show a small built-in screen on the pad’s face, a detail no rumor had nailed down before.
That price tag alone should raise an eyebrow. Prototype hardware rarely surfaces through casual resale, and Microsoft has not confirmed anything about the device. Still, the images line up with earlier leaks. In May, a Brazilian regulatory filing hinted at design changes for the next Elite controller, as reported by The Verge.
Why the Xbox Elite 3 Screen Matters
A built-in display would push the Xbox Elite 3 further into premium territory. Sony’s DualSense Edge already commands a steep price for pro-level customization. Microsoft appears ready to compete directly with a screen feature that no rival controller currently offers.
The catch is verification. Leaked hardware photos have fooled audiences before. Until Microsoft confirms details, treat the Xbox Elite 3 leak as credible but unofficial.
Joby Aviation Bets Big on Defense
Joby Aviation moved in a very different direction this week. The electric air taxi company announced a $500 million acquisition of Resonant Sciences, a defense contractor based in Dayton, Ohio.
Joby plans to fund the deal with $450 million in cash and $50 million in equity. That split signals confidence in near-term cash flow. It also shows how much Joby wants a foothold in military contracting.
Air taxi startups have struggled to find revenue outside limited passenger pilots. Defense contracts offer steadier government money. Joby’s move follows a broader pattern of aerospace startups chasing military budgets instead of waiting on consumer adoption.
The Business Model Behind the Headline
Half a billion dollars is a large bet for a company still proving its commercial air taxi model. Investors should watch whether Resonant Sciences delivers revenue quickly. If integration stalls, the acquisition could strain Joby’s balance sheet instead of strengthening it.
Xbox Elite: Cheaper Earbuds and a Warning About Space Mirrors
Elsewhere, Google’s Pixel Buds 2a dropped to $99 at multiple retailers this week. The earbuds normally sell for $129 and pair especially well with Android phones, according to The Verge.
Meanwhile, scientists raised fresh concerns about space mirror projects. These satellites aim to reflect sunlight onto Earth for round-the-clock solar power. Critics warn the light could damage eyes and disrupt astronomy research, echoing failed Russian experiments from the 1990s.
Separately, a dispute over transgender eligibility rules is unfolding in the WNBA. Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham sparked debate after arguing for stricter rules on trans participation. Former NBA players have pushed back, citing eligibility policy ahead of the 2027 Draft.
Xbox Elite: What to Watch Next
The Xbox Elite 3 story deserves the most attention from gamers this week. Watch for Microsoft’s official response or a formal reveal timeline.
On the business side, track whether Joby’s defense unit lands new contracts within two quarters. That timeline will show whether the acquisition pays off. For shoppers, the Pixel Buds 2a discount offers a low-risk way to try wireless earbuds if you’re building out your wireless earbuds setup (paid link).
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