Did you buy an Xbox controller over the past few months and discover there were no AA batteries included with it? If that's the case, you're likely being treated to a free rechargeable battery as an apology from Team Xbox!
Specifically, they're saying that if you bought an Xbox Wireless Controller since December 2025 that didn't come with batteries, "you may be eligible" for this offer. Here's a bit more about it:
"If you purchased an Xbox Wireless Controller from the Microsoft Store, Xbox Design Lab, or a third‑party retailer in December 2025 or later, and the package didn't include AA batteries, you may be eligible to receive an Xbox Rechargeable Battery + USB‑C Cable..."
If you think you fall into this category, you'll need to follow these instructions:
- Go to account.microsoft.com/devices.
- Select Register device > Register a new device.
- Complete the registration flow.
- Select the controller you registered, then select Start order, and follow the onscreen instructions.
- For Category, select Accessory and for Issue Type, select Charge Kit.
- If your controller is eligible, you'll see an offer for Xbox Rechargeable Battery + USB-C Cable - Send Immediately – One-Time Offer. Select this and continue with the steps to complete the order.
Interestingly, Microsoft says that you don't need a receipt for this, so we assume it's already known which serial numbers have been affected - the serial number is the key thing you'll need to enter when signing up for a free battery.
It's nice to see Team Xbox offering this freebie, and if you do happen to be in this situation, you're getting a better deal than everyone else - Xbox rechargeable batteries retail at £19.99 / $24.99, and they should last a very long time!