With mobile gaming becoming more immersive and complex, there’s no reason to settle for touchscreen controls if you have a PlayStation 5 DualSense controller at your disposal. Connecting the PS5 controller to your mobile device is easier than ever, giving you a familiar, console-level experience while on the go. Whether you're using an iPhone or an Android, here’s your comprehensive guide to unleashing the power of the PS5 DualSense on your mobile device. Let’s get connected!
The PS5 DualSense controller is celebrated for its innovative features: adaptive triggers, haptic feedback, and an ergonomic design that amplifies gaming immersion. But did you know it also works with mobile devices? By connecting your DualSense controller to your phone, you can enjoy console-grade precision in mobile games, especially those that support controller input. Whether playing on cloud services like Xbox Cloud Gaming or GeForce Now or tackling mobile titles like Call of Duty: Mobile, the DualSense makes gameplay smoother and more responsive.
Before diving into the connection process, ensure your device’s compatibility:
- iPhone: The PS5 DualSense controller is compatible with iPhones running iOS 14.5 or later. Check for software updates if you’re running an older version.
- Android: Android 12 or later is recommended for the smoothest connection experience, but older versions may still support it.
1. Turn on Bluetooth on Your iPhone:
- Go to Settings> Bluetooth and toggle Bluetooth on. Keep the Bluetooth settings open so you can see nearby devices.
2. Put the DualSense in Pairing Mode:
- On your PS5 controller, press and hold the PS buttonand the Create button(located left of the touchpad) simultaneously until the light bar begins to flash. This signals that your controller is in pairing mode.
3. Connect the Devices:
- In the Bluetooth settings on your iPhone, find and select “DualSense Wireless Controller” under Other Devices. Tap to connect, and you’re good to go!
4. Confirm the Connection:
- Once connected, the controller should show up under My Devices, indicating that your iPhone is now paired with the DualSense.
5. Test in a Game:
- Open a game that supports controller input to ensure everything is working smoothly. Some games may require minor setup adjustments in the settings to detect the controller.
1. Enable Bluetooth on Your Android:
- Open Settings> Connected devices> Pair new deviceand turn on Bluetooth.
2. Activate Pairing Mode on Your DualSense:
- Press and hold the PSand Createbuttons until the light bar starts flashing.
3. Pair the Devices:
- On your Android device, locate and tap on “Wireless Controller” from the list of nearby devices. Once it connects, you’re ready to dive into your favorite mobile games.
4. Launch a Compatible Game:
- Open a controller-compatible game and take the DualSense for a spin! Some Android devices may require you to remap buttons if the controls don’t work perfectly out of the box.
If you run into any issues while pairing or using the controller, try these quick fixes:
- Reset the Controller: If the DualSense won’t enter pairing mode, reset it by inserting a pin into the small hole on the back.
- Reconnect in Bluetooth Settings: If the controller disconnects, go back to Bluetooth settings on your device and tap on the controller to reconnect.
- Check for Updates: Ensure your iPhone or Android device is up to date, as system updates often improve device compatibility.
- Adaptive Triggers and Haptics: While the PS5 DualSense controller’s unique adaptive triggers and haptics may not work fully with every mobile game, some games and cloud gaming services, like Xbox Cloud Gaming, partially support these features. This means that if a game on the platform is built for DualSense, you may feel the triggers’ variable resistance!
- Battery Life: Using a controller via Bluetooth can be a drain on both the controller’s and your phone’s battery. Be prepared for shorter gaming sessions or keep an external battery pack handy.
If you need to return your controller to the PS5, unpairing from your mobile device is easy:
1. Unpair from Mobile Device:
- Go to Settings> Bluetooth on your device, tap the “i” or settings icon next to the DualSense controller, and select Forget This Device(iPhone) or Unpair(Android).
2. Reconnect to the PS5 Console:
- To reconnect, plug the controller into your PS5 with a USB cable, press the PS button, and it will sync back to your console automatically.
Here are some popular games that make the most of your PS5 controller’s power on mobile:
- Genshin Impact: Explore an expansive world with console-like controls.
- Call of Duty: Mobile: Get the advantage in fast-paced FPS action with tactile aiming and shooting.
- Fortnite: Enhance your building and shooting precision for an edge over touchscreen players.
- Minecraft: Build, mine, and survive with the intuitive controls you’re used to on a console.
Pairing your PS5 DualSense controller with your mobile device is a game-changer, especially for those who crave console-quality controls on mobile. With its ergonomic design, responsive feedback, and versatility, the DualSense controller is one of the best ways to transform any mobile game into a premium experience.
So, grab your controller, connect it to your phone, and elevate your mobile gaming to new heights!