As the gaming and mobile worlds continue to collide, more people are opting to combine the two and use their gaming controllers, but their phones as the console - here’s how.
Since iOS 13 came out in late 2019 you can now connect your PS4 and Xbox One controllers to your iPhone. With mobile gaming exploding, some people like something sturdier to play with whilst driving to a world championship on your way to work.
Follow this quick guide on how to connect to PS4 and Xbox One controllers using your iPhone or iPad.
You do need this latest operating model so make sure your device is up to date.
How to connect your PS4 controller to your iPhone or iPad
Connecting a PS4 controller to an iPhone with iOS13 is as simple as connecting any Bluetooth device and is just a case of pairing the two. To do this;
- On your iPhone or iPad go to settings, and then Bluetooth Settings.
- On your PS4 controller press and hold the PS and Share button until the light starts to flash.
- When the PS4 controller is flashing white it’s in pairing mode and will appear on your iPhone’s Bluetooth list.
- Select the PS4 controller and pair it - you’re good to go.
Be aware that as of right now, the full functionality of the PS4 controller won’t work with your apple device. The option, share and PS button won’t do anything. Also note the game on the phone needs to be a game that supports MFi (Made for iOS) controllers.
How to connect your Xbox One controller to your iPhone or iPad
Connecting your Xbox One controller is the same as PS4 in so much as you need to enter the pairing mode. You need to make sure your Xbox controller is the newer version that has Bluetooth capabilities. You can tell this by the fact the controller has the plastic casing around the Guide button in the middle, and not below it.
This picture shows a non-Bluetooth controller at the top and a Bluetooth controller at the bottom;
- On your iPhone or iPad go to settings, and then Bluetooth Settings.
- On your Xbox One controller press and hold the Guide button (the big central button) until the light turns on.
- Press the small button on the top of the pad next to LB to start a sync, and you should see the Guide button flashing
- On your Apple device, select the Xbox one controller and pair it - you’re good to go.
Again, you are using the controller as MFi (made for iOS) so not all buttons will work as expected if they are designed for consoles. Likewise, the game on the phone needs to be enabled for MFi controllers.