Connecting a PS4 controller to your phone opens up a world of mobile gaming possibilities. It lets you play games with the comfort and precision of a console controller. You can connect a PS4 controller to both Android and iOS devices using Bluetooth.
The process is simple and takes just a few minutes. It works for phones and tablets alike. Once connected, you can use the controller for many mobile games and apps.
This guide will walk you through the steps to pair your PS4 controller with your phone. We’ll cover both Android and iOS devices. You’ll be gaming with your favorite controller on your phone in no time.
Connecting Your PS4 Controller to Your Phone
Did you know you can use your PS4 controller to play games on your phone? It’s true! With a few simple steps, you can enjoy the comfort and familiarity of your DualShock 4 controller for mobile gaming.
Why Use a PS4 Controller on Your Phone?
- Enhanced Control: A PS4 controller offers more precise control and a more ergonomic grip than touch screen controls, especially for complex games.
- Comfort: Many people find the PS4 controller more comfortable to hold for extended gaming sessions.
- Compatibility: PS4 controllers are compatible with a wide range of Android and iOS devices.
Methods for Connecting
There are two main ways to connect your PS4 controller to your phone:
1. Bluetooth Connection
- Enable Bluetooth on your phone: Go to your phone’s settings and turn on Bluetooth.
- Put your controller in pairing mode: Press and hold the PS button and the Share button on your controller simultaneously until the light bar starts flashing.
- Connect the controller on your phone: On your phone’s Bluetooth settings, look for “Wireless Controller” and tap to connect.
2. USB Connection
- OTG Adapter: You’ll need an On-The-Go (OTG) adapter that connects to your phone’s charging port. These are inexpensive and readily available online or at electronics stores.
- Connect the controller: Plug the OTG adapter into your phone, then connect your PS4 controller to the adapter using a USB cable.
Tips for a Successful Connection
- Update your phone’s software: Make sure your phone is running the latest software version.
- Charge your controller: Ensure your PS4 controller has sufficient battery life.
- Close unnecessary apps: Close any apps running in the background on your phone that you don’t need.
- Distance: Keep your phone and controller in close proximity during the pairing process.
Compatibility
- Android: PS4 controllers generally work well with Android devices. Some games might have built-in support, while others might require third-party apps for controller mapping.
- iOS: iOS 13 and later versions have native support for PS4 controllers. You can use them with many Apple Arcade games and other compatible apps.
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Bluetooth | Wireless connection using Bluetooth technology. Requires pairing the controller with your phone. Offers more freedom of movement but may be susceptible to occasional interference. |
| USB | Wired connection using an OTG adapter and a USB cable. Provides a more stable connection and also charges the controller while in use. However, it limits your range of motion. |
Popular Games and Apps
Many popular mobile games support PS4 controller input. Here are a few examples:
- Call of Duty: Mobile
- Fortnite
- Minecraft
- Genshin Impact
- GRID Autosport
- Stardew Valley
You can also use your PS4 controller with cloud gaming services like Xbox Cloud Gaming (formerly xCloud) and PlayStation Now (PS Now), allowing you to stream and play console games on your phone.
Remote Play
Don’t forget about the PS4’s Remote Play feature! This allows you to stream games directly from your PS4 console to your phone, using your phone as a display and your PS4 controller as the input device. This is a great way to enjoy your PS4 games on the go, even if they don’t have native mobile versions.
Key Takeaways
- PS4 controllers can connect to phones and tablets via Bluetooth
- The pairing process differs slightly between Android and iOS devices
- Many mobile games support PS4 controller input for enhanced gameplay
Preparing Your Devices for Connection
Getting your phone and PS4 controller ready is key. You’ll need to turn on Bluetooth and put the controller in pairing mode.
Enabling Bluetooth on Your Phone
First, turn on Bluetooth on your phone. For Android phones, swipe down from the top of the screen. Tap the Bluetooth icon to turn it on. The icon will light up when it’s on.
For iPhones, go to Settings. Find Bluetooth in the list. Tap the switch next to Bluetooth to turn it on. The switch will turn green.
Make sure your phone is looking for new devices. On Android, tap and hold the Bluetooth icon. On iPhone, stay on the Bluetooth screen.
Entering Pairing Mode on the PS4 Controller
To connect your PS4 controller, you need to put it in pairing mode. Start with the controller off.
Press and hold the PS button and the Share button at the same time. Keep holding them for about 3-5 seconds. The light bar on top of the controller will start to flash white. This means it’s in pairing mode.
Your phone should now see the controller. It might show up as “Wireless Controller” in the list of devices. Tap on it to connect.
If it doesn’t work, try again. Make sure you’re holding both buttons long enough. The controller should now be ready to pair with your phone.
Connecting and Troubleshooting
Linking a PS4 controller to a phone involves a few key steps. Users need to set up the connection, finish the pairing process, and fix any problems that come up.
Establishing a Connection
To connect a PS4 controller to a phone, start by turning on Bluetooth on the device. For Android phones, go to Settings and tap Bluetooth. On iPhones, open Settings and select Bluetooth.
Next, put the PS4 controller in pairing mode. Press and hold the PS button and Share button at the same time. The light bar will flash when it’s ready to pair.
On the phone, look for the controller in the list of Bluetooth devices. It may show up as “Wireless Controller” or “DUALSHOCK 4”.
Authentication and Final Steps
Tap the controller name on the phone to start pairing. The phone may ask for a code. If so, enter 0000.
Once paired, the controller’s light bar will turn a solid color. On Android, it often turns blue. On iPhone, it may turn pink.
To check if it worked, try using the controller in a game. If it doesn’t work, go back to the Bluetooth settings and tap the controller name again.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If the controller won’t connect, try these fixes:
- Restart the phone and controller
- Update the phone’s software
- Check the controller’s battery
- Try a different USB cable for wired connections
For persistent issues, reset the PS4 controller. Look for a small hole on the back. Use a paperclip to press the button inside for 5 seconds.
If nothing works, the controller or phone’s Bluetooth might be faulty. Try connecting to a different device to narrow down the problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
Connecting a PS4 controller to a phone can be tricky. Here are some common questions and answers to help you get started.
How can I pair my PS4 controller with my Android phone via Bluetooth?
To pair a PS4 controller with an Android phone:
- Put the controller in pairing mode by pressing the PS and Share buttons.
- Open Bluetooth settings on your phone.
- Select “Pair new device” and choose “DualShock 4” from the list.
The controller’s light bar will turn solid blue when connected.
What steps are required to connect a PS4 controller to an iPhone?
To connect a PS4 controller to an iPhone:
- Press and hold the PS and Share buttons on the controller.
- Open Settings on your iPhone and go to Bluetooth.
- Tap on “DUALSHOCK 4” in the list of devices.
The controller’s light bar will turn pinkish-red when paired with an iPhone.
Why is my PS4 controller not connecting to my phone?
If your PS4 controller won’t connect:
- Make sure the controller is charged.
- Check if Bluetooth is on and your phone is discoverable.
- Try resetting the controller using the small hole on the back.
- Restart your phone and try again.
Is it possible to connect a PS4 controller to a Samsung phone wirelessly?
Yes, you can connect a PS4 controller to a Samsung phone wirelessly. The steps are the same as for other Android phones:
- Put the controller in pairing mode.
- Go to Bluetooth settings on your Samsung phone.
- Select the controller from the list of available devices.
Can a PS5 controller be used with a smartphone, and if so, how?
Yes, a PS5 controller can be used with smartphones. To connect:
- Press and hold the PS button and Create button on the PS5 controller.
- Open Bluetooth settings on your phone.
- Select “DualSense Wireless Controller” from the list.
The process is similar to connecting a PS4 controller.
What is the method for syncing a PS4 controller with a phone?
To sync a PS4 controller with a phone:
- Press and hold the PS and Share buttons until the light bar flashes.
- On your phone, go to Bluetooth settings.
- Look for “DUALSHOCK 4” in the list of devices.
- Tap on it to pair.
The light bar will change color when successfully connected.
