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How to Connect a PS4 Controller to a Smartphone
September 20, 2021 *
Today’s best smartphones can perform well enough to deliver decent gaming experiences. Still, these small, portable devices don’t offer the kind of controls that PC and console users expect.
To improve this experience and still keep the gaming setup portable, learn how to connect a PS4 controller to a smartphone. Right now, many PS4 users want to upgrade to a PS5. So consider keeping at least one PS4 controller to use with a smartphone. Of course, people who don’t already have a DualShock 4 controller should find plenty of pre-owned and new ones on the market for a reasonable price.
Connecting a PS4 Controller to an Android Smartphone
For wireless connections, the phone needs an upgrade to at least Android 10. If you don’t have Android 10, you will need the controller’s charging cable and an adapter.
For a wireless connection:
- Look for the Pair New Device setting on the phone. The location of this setting may vary by brand and model.
- Press and hold the controller’s Share and PS buttons at the same time until the light on the back double-blinks.
- The controller should appear as a pairing option, select it, and then look for a stable light on the controller to confirm the connection.
Connecting a PS4 Controller to an iPhone
TechRadar mentioned that the iPhone needs an update to at least iOS 13 to ensure a proper connection. Once that’s done, just follow these steps:
- Open the phone’s Bluetooth menu.
- On the controller, press and hold the PS button and Share button at the same time.
- After about five seconds, the controller’s light should double-blink, indicating a connection.
- Finally, look for the controller in the Bluetooth menu, select it, and look for a steady light on the controller.
Connecting the DualShock 4 to a PC
Keeping a spare PS4 controller around can help with more than just playing games on smartphones. The DualShock 4 can plug into a PC with a USB-to-Micro-USB connector. According to PC Magazine, these controllers can also connect to Bluetooth-enabled PCs wirelessly.
Getting this setup to work might take a wrapper to translate the controller’s input into something the computer understands. Some examples of this kind of software include a freeware program called DS4Windows and the compatibility settings on Steam.
With Steam games, the second option should prove easier. On the other hand, DS4Windows also offers some programmable customization options for the controller, plus it works on non-Steam games.
Are you in the market for a new PS5 and an extra DualShare Wireless Controller? This previous Upsie article has the scoop on both the PS5 and accessories. The PS5 is expensive but packed with advanced features that will keep gamers engaged. Of course, some budget-minded players might decide to wait to buy the PS5 and pick up a deal on a DualShare 4 to use with their smartphone or PC.
Extended Warranties for Gaming Consoles and Accessories
Upsie offers extended warranties for gaming consoles and controllers and includes affordable access to prompt, certified repairs. In addition, Upsie’s protection plans for consoles and controllers cover drops, spills, connectivity problems, and much more. Upsie offers low-priced warranties paired with premium coverage.
Customers can purchase an Upsie warranty for electronic gaming devices purchased within the last 60 days. Upsie covers a wide range of devices, including gaming PCs, controllers, consoles, smartphones, and more. For the best protection while gaming, choose Upsie.
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* This article is over 6 months old and may or may not be updated.