Unlocking a World of Gaming: How to Pair PS4 and Xbox Controllers with Your iPhone or iPad
The arrival of iOS 13 brought a wave of exciting gaming features, and among them, the ability to use official PS4 and Xbox controllers with your iPhone and iPad has garnered immense excitement. It’s no longer just about casual mobile gaming; you’re now able to truly dive into complex games with the intuitive control and precision offered by these dedicated controllers. This article will serve as your guide to seamlessly pairing these controllers with your iOS devices and navigating the exciting world of mobile gaming.
Pairing your PS4 DualShock 4 Controller
For those whose heart beats to the rhythm of PlayStation, pairing your DualShock 4 controller is a simple process. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
Step 1: Enable Bluetooth
- Start by heading to your iPhone or iPad Settings and switching on Bluetooth. Keep the Bluetooth page open as you’ll be needing it for the next steps.
Step 2: Put your Controller in Pairing Mode
- Press and hold the Share and PS buttons simultaneously on your DualShock 4 controller. Keep them pressed until the light bar on the controller starts blinking rapidly in white.
Step 3: Complete the Pairing
- With your Bluetooth settings open, you’ll see "DualShock 4 Wireless Controller" appear under the available devices list. Tap on it to complete the pairing process.
Unpairing your Controller:
Once you’re done gaming, disconnecting your DualShock 4 is just as straightforward:
- Open your iPhone or iPad’s Control Center by swiping upwards from the bottom of the screen.
- Long-press the Bluetooth icon, then tap on it again to see the list of paired devices.
- Tap on "DualShock 4 Wireless Controller" to disconnect the controller.
- Alternatively, hold down the PS button on the controller to manually disconnect it.
For a complete disconnect, which effectively "forgets" the controller:
- Go to your iPhone or iPad’s Settings, then select Bluetooth.
- Find your DualShock 4 Wireless Controller in the list and tap the i icon next to it.
- Tap on Forget This Device.
Pairing your Xbox Controller
Xbox fans rejoice! Pairing your controller with your iOS device is a breeze, provided you own the right model.
Choosing the Right Xbox Controller
Before you begin, double-check that you have a compatible Xbox controller. Not all controllers have Bluetooth connectivity. You need to ensure you have either the Model 1708 wireless controller (originally shipped with the Xbox One S) or an Xbox One Elite Controller.
Step 1: Enable Bluetooth
- Head to your iPhone or iPad Settings and turn on Bluetooth. Keep the Bluetooth settings open for the duration of the pairing process.
Step 2: Put your Controller in Pairing Mode
- For a controller that has never been paired: Hold down the Xbox button for a few seconds. Your iPhone or iPad should detect "Xbox Wireless Controller" under Available Devices in the Bluetooth settings. Tap on it to complete the pairing.
- For a controller that is already paired to an Xbox: Turn on your controller, then press and hold the pair button for a few seconds (located on the top between the LB and RB buttons). Your iPhone or iPad will detect "Xbox Wireless Controller" under Available Devices in your Bluetooth settings. Tap on it to complete the pairing.
Unpairing your Xbox Controller:
To disconnect or unpair your Xbox controller:
- Simply press and hold the Xbox button for a few seconds to completely shut off the controller, disconnecting it from your iPhone or iPad.
- Alternatively, follow the same steps as those given for unpairing a DualShock 4 controller by using your iPhone’s Control Center or the Settings menu.
With these simple steps, you can unlock a world of immersive gaming on your iPhone and iPad. Enjoy the enhanced control, precision, and responsive feedback that dedicated controllers bring to your favorite games.
