Xbox One controllers use something called firmware, a special type of software designed to run on hardware devices. Microsoft makes changes to this firmware every now and then, so sometimes your Xbox One controller needs to be updated.

You can update your Xbox One controller firmware using either an Xbox One or a Windows 10 PC, and you can do so over a wireless connection or with a micro USB cable. The process doesn’t take long and can fix a bunch of annoying issues, like dropped connections.

Xbox One controllers are designed to connect to your Xbox One console over a wireless connection, and most can receive updates wirelessly as well. Some older Xbox One controllers can only be updated over a wired USB connection.

If you're not sure what type of controller you have, look at which part of the controller faces you when you hold it.