[Update: As of writing this post, Major Nelson has confirmed the existence of the new controller and provided us with a video showing off the new controller and it’s new functionality which can be seen above. The original post can be found after the break.]

Major Nelson just unveiled the new Xbox 360 controller to us with the all-new “transforming” d-pad. The controller will be made available on November 9th for $64.99, which also includes the Play & Charge Kit. Aside from the new “revolutionary” d-pad, the Xbox 360 controller will also feature slightly more concave analog sticks and grey action buttons. If you are in Europe however you will have to wait until early  next year (February) before you’ll be able to pick one of these bad boys up.

Sometime last night rumors were flying around that Microsoft is in the process of developing a new Xbox 360 controller with a new “transforming” directional pad. Come today and a Microsoft spokesperson has supposedly confirmed the rumor to StrategyInformer saying that “The Xbox 360 Wireless Controller with Play & Charge Kit – with Transforming D-pad will be available worldwide beginning early 2011”.

Ever since the first Xbox controller the d-pad has always been the one of the controller’s downfall, but come next year that is all set to change. While we do not yet know how this d-pad will compare to the current, the rumors have claimed that it will be able to rotate 90 degrees and raise up from its housing; something that fighting game fans will greatly appreciate.

This could very well be related to the patent filed earlier this year by Microsoft for a new controller, although only time will tell. We’ll hopefully hear more this weekend at PAX or later this fall at one of the other various gaming conventions being held.

Follow this author on Twitter.