To connect a PS4 controller to your phone, you pair it via Bluetooth just like any other wireless accessory. This lets you play mobile games with the familiar feel of a DualShock 4, instead of relying on touchscreen controls or using your phone as a controller.
How to connect a PS4 controller to my phone: before you start
Before pairing, make sure the controller's player indicator light is off. If it is on, press and hold the PS button until it turns off. Also, disconnect any USB cable from the controller, a wired connection can interfere with Bluetooth pairing. For a wired connection on Android phones, use a USB OTG (On-The-Go) cable. As an alternative connection method, third-party apps like 'Sixaxis Controller' or 'DUALSHOCK 4 for PS4' can be used.
Put your DualShock 4 into pairing mode
While pressing and holding the SHARE button, press and hold the PS button simultaneously. The light bar on the controller will flash rapidly. This rapid flashing means the controller is in pairing mode and ready to be discovered by your phone.
Connect the controller to your Android phone
- On your Android phone, open the Settings app.
- Enable Bluetooth.
- Navigate to "Connected devices" and tap "Pair new device," or go directly to the Bluetooth menu.
- From the list of available devices, select "Wireless Controller" or "DUALSHOCK 4 Wireless Controller."
Your Android phone must be running Android 10 or later for native support.
Connect the controller to your iPhone or iPad
- On your iPhone or iPad, open the Settings app.
- Tap Bluetooth and ensure Bluetooth is turned on.
- From the list of available devices, select "DUALSHOCK 4 Wireless Controller."
Your iPhone must be running iOS 13 or later for controller support.
How to know the connection was successful
Once paired, the controller's light bar will turn a solid color. This solid light confirms the connection is active and the controller is ready to use.
What to do after connecting
To reconnect the controller to your PS4 console, connect it with a compatible USB cable and press the PS button on the controller. Remember, a DUALSHOCK 4 wireless controller can only be paired with one device at a time; to use it with another device, you must pair it again. On iOS/iPadOS 16 or later, you can customize controller buttons by going to Settings > General > Game Controller. A wired connection via USB OTG may require manual game configuration for controller input.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I connect a PS4 controller to any phone?
Your phone must support Bluetooth to pair wirelessly. Most modern Android and iOS devices work, but very old or budget phones may lack the required Bluetooth profiles.
Do all mobile games support a PS4 controller?
No. Game developers choose whether to add controller support. Check a game's description or settings before assuming it works with a DualShock 4.
Why won't my phone find the controller?
Make sure the controller is in pairing mode (light bar flashing rapidly) and that no other device is currently connected to it. Restarting your phone's Bluetooth can also help.
Can I use the controller while it's charging?
Yes, but the Bluetooth connection may be less stable if a USB cable is plugged in. For the best wireless experience, disconnect any cable before pairing.
Does this work for PlayStation 5 controllers too?
The PS5 DualSense controller uses a different pairing process and may not be compatible with all phones.
