[DigitalToday reporter Jae-won Choi (최재원)] Microsoft has unveiled the Xbox Nano, an ultra-compact gamepad that is smaller and lighter than a smartphone. It is targeting children, users with small hands and consumers who play games on the move by emphasizing portability and price competitiveness.

On Oct. 14 (local time), U.S. tech outlet The Verge reported that the Xbox Nano is just over 5 inches (about 12.7 cm) long and weighs only 3.5 ounces (about 99 grams). It is the smallest Xbox controller Microsoft has introduced and is shorter and lighter than most smartphones.

Despite its smaller size, it keeps the basic control scheme of a standard Xbox controller. It has 18 standard game input functions and supports Xbox wireless technology and Bluetooth. It can connect to Xbox Series X·S and Xbox One, as well as Windows PCs, smartphones, tablets and compatible smart TVs.

It uses a built-in rechargeable battery, removing the need to prepare AA batteries or a separate battery pack. It charges via a USB-C port, and the cable is sold separately.

A newly added programmable "action button" can be assigned frequently used functions such as taking screenshots and recording gameplay video.

A small display that appeared in leaked product images earlier this year, showing cloud or console connection status, was not included in the final product. The basic exterior design, including the rear USB-C port and pairing button, was retained.

The U.S. price is $49.99 (about 67,000 won), and preorders began on Thursday. The official release date, based on the Microsoft Store in the United States, is Nov. 4. South Korea is also included among countries slated for a November launch, but the domestic price has not yet been confirmed.

Microsoft plans to use the portable compact gamepad to broaden the base of its Xbox accessories market, extending beyond mobile and cloud gamers to family consumers.