Today, we will walk you through the easy steps to connect your PS4 controller to your iPhone and iPad. Because wireless game controllers are on the rise, it is important to know how we can pair them successfully with our mobile devices.
Everyone in the console-gaming world knows that back in the days, one would need the bulk of a PlayStation or Xbox set to enjoy their favorite games. And while some have tried pairing game controllers with their mobile devices with some workaround, they didn’t truly capture the feel of console gaming. Luckily, we can say hello to the future where the compatibility of our game controllers with our mobile devices is now a reality.
When Did Apple Add Support for PS4 Controllers?
Everyone at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2019 went wild when Apple CEO, Tim Cook, announced that they will begin to support game controllers on tvOS. But later that year, it was also the first time in history that the iPhone and iPad officially got this support on iOS 13 with Apple Arcade.
The PS4 DualShock 4 is one of the first wireless controllers ever to receive this support natively. By natively, we mean no more bypasses or workarounds needed to connect your controller to your iOS or iPadOS device. Now you can immediately pair your best game controller right off the bat.
Best PS4 Controller You Can Use on Apple Devices
As of writing, the DualShock 4 is one of the best PS4 controllers you can use without the need to jailbreak your iOS devices. The PS4 DualShock 4 is the revolutionary successor to the DualShock 3. Its new features include Bluetooth wireless capability, refined analog sticks, precision triggers for more accurate control, a built-in speaker and headset jack, a dynamic light bar, an interactive touchpad, and heaps more! Let’s quickly get down to some of these features.
Connectivity
Now you can enjoy the power of wireless technology via Bluetooth. Or, if you happen to be a fan of USB connection, you still have the nifty option to connect your controller using a micro-USB cable.
Light Bar
The dynamic light bar enhances your gaming experience by showing colors that represent your status; for example, your character’s health. In some games, the color of the light bar sets the distinction between the team you are on and your opposing team. It also shows your connectivity status when pairing with your Mac or iOS devices.
Screenshots
It is now made simple to share and capture great moments while gaming. To take a screenshot of your gameplay, briefly click on the share button of your DualShock 4 controller. Or to do it differently, you can tap the share button while quickly hitting the circle button. It’s that easy!
Streaming
After setting up your linked accounts, just choose the video service you want (YouTube or Twitch, among others). Then, you can start sharing your gameplay with the world.
Colors and Price
When buying your DualShock PS4 Controller, there are lots of colors to choose from! They come in classic colors such as Jet Black or Glacier White. But if you are into the more playful ones, there are colors such as Berry Blue or Sunset Orange. The standard price starts at $64.99.
System Requirements to Connect PS4 Controller to Apple Devices
DualShock 4 is supported by devices that run iOS 13, iPadOS 13, tvOS 13, and macOS Catalina, or later.
Users who are on iPod Touch (7th Gen), iPhone SE (1st Gen), and iPhone 6s or later can enjoy the DualShock 4 wireless controller. Meanwhile, iPad users will find compatibility with all iPad Pro models, iPad Mini 4, iPad Air 2, iPad 5th Generation, and their later generations. So, whether you are on iOS 13 or the latest iOS 14, rest assured that PlayStation DualShock 4 wireless controller is yours to enjoy.
How to Connect PS4 Controllers to iPhone and iPad
- First, grab your iOS/iPadOS device and turn on Bluetooth on the Settings app.
- On your PS4 Controller, push and hold the PS and Share buttons at the same time for three to five seconds, or until the light bar starts to blink.
- DualShock 4 by then should appear on the Bluetooth settings on your device.
- Select your PlayStation DualShock 4 controller.
- When the light bar turns pink, it means your device is finally connected!
You can now use your PS4 DualShock Controller on your iPhone or iPad. Do take note that some features might not be available on certain devices.
How to Disconnect PS4 Controllers From Apple Devices
There are two ways that you can disconnect your PS4 controller from your iPhone or iPad. You can do it either from your mobile device or the PS4 controller itself.
Via Mobile
- On your iPad or iPhone, head on to Bluetooth on the Settings app, and look for the name of your PS4 controller.
- Then tap on Information (ⓘ), hit disconnect – and you’re done!
Via the Controller
- Grab your PS4 controller, then press and hold the PS button for about ten seconds or until the light on the light bar goes out.
- To double-check, you should find on the Bluetooth settings of your iPhone or iPad that your PS4 controller is “disconnected.”
Important Tips
Some users find trouble reconnecting their wireless controllers to their PS4 console after playing on their Apple device. However, you can avoid the trouble and be able to connect your controller again to your PS4 by doing these simple steps:
- Turn on the power button of your PS4 (console).
- Connect your wireless controller to your console via USB cable.
- Finally, push the PS button – and voila! Your controller should already be connected to your PS4.
It’s important that your PS4 console is powered on because if not, your controller might connect to your nearby iPhone or iPad instead.
Benefits of Using PS4 Controllers on iPhone and iPad
The long wait has ended ever since Apple launched native support for game controllers on their devices. This support was groundbreaking for most users because some game applications work tremendously better with a controller than with just the touchscreen. Here are some benefits when you connect PS4 controllers to your iPhone and iPad.
Speed and Accuracy
With the DualShock 4 wireless controller, you can take advantage of the new analog sticks that were built for precision. Have you ever tried Real Racing 3 and noticed that your tilting and handling of the controls just don’t get it right? Well, having your DualShock 4 gives you a superb advantage over other players.
Imagine this: while your opponent is tilting their entire display (say a 12.9-inch iPad Pro), you are slaying the game with comfort and accuracy – and with very minimal effort! Shifting through menus with the L1 and L2 buttons is also a breeze, compared with making long swipes across your screen.
And lastly, there isn’t any noticeable lagging or latency. That way, you can always expect a rich and uninterrupted gaming experience. Now, you can use a mobile controller on Call of Duty and make the most out of your gameplay.
Portability
You can now immerse into your favorite PlayStation games on the go with the PS4 Remote Play app! Just download the app to your iPhone or iPad. In an instant, you can achieve the same gaming experience with your wireless controller wherever you go.
Scratch Prevention
Most people can’t deny that iPhones and iPads can get a little pricey. So it’s important to preserve your device from unwanted scratches or wear-downs, especially when the games get rough. It could get ugly when you least expect slashing your screen at the expense of winning a game. But with a PS4 controller, you are at peace that your Apple device will be spared.
Second Screen
Even while on your PS4, you can still use your iPhone or iPad to maximize your gaming experience. And you can do this with the PS4 Second Screen app. What it does is it adds extra functionality by helping you streamline your PS4 navigation and lets you enable Remote Play.
Other Wireless Controllers You Can Use on iPhone and iPad
If you don’t happen to have a PS4 DualShock 4, it’s all good because there are other wireless controllers that you can use or purchase for your iPhone or iPad.
Xbox Wireless Controller (1708)
Alongside DualShock 4, the Xbox One S is among the first wireless game controllers supported by iOS and iPadOS. If you have it, all you need is its controller which you’ll find to have model number 1708.
Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2
If you’re out in the market for something more high-end, the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 just might be the one for you! Because of its premium build and quality, you can up your gameplay by being and feeling like a pro.
Razer Kishi
Razer Kishi does not disappoint in terms of portability. Thanks to its compact size and fold feature, it is a wireless game controller that you can easily slip into your pocket.
Final Word
The added support for mobile controllers on the iPhone and iPad gives a fresh breath to mobile gaming. Unlike the on-screen controls, mobile controllers give a more tactile and ergonomic experience for its handgrips and triggers. Hopefully, this guide on how to connect a PS4 controller on iOS and iPadOS helps you advance your gaming!
