To connect a PS5 controller to your phone, you pair the DualSense wireless controller via Bluetooth with an Android device running Android 12 or later or an iPhone running iOS 14.5 or later. This lets you play mobile games that support generic controllers with the precision and comfort of a console controller, rather than relying on touchscreen controls or using your phone as a controller.
Before you start pairing
Before pairing, ensure the PS5 controller's player indicator light is off; if it's on, press and hold the PS button until it turns off. Disconnect any USB cable from the controller before attempting Bluetooth pairing. Verify your phone’s operating system meets the minimum requirements: Android 12 or later for Android phones, and iOS 14.5 or iPadOS 14.5 or later for iPhones and iPads.
Put your DualSense controller in pairing mode
Press and hold the Create button (located to the left of the touchpad) and the PS button (the PlayStation logo in the center) simultaneously. Continue holding both buttons until the light bar on the left and right sides of the touchpad starts blinking blue. This indicates the controller is in pairing mode.
Connect to an Android phone
- Enable Bluetooth on your Android phone through the Settings app or the Quick Settings panel.
- Navigate to “Connected devices,” “Connections,” or “Bluetooth” in Settings.
- Tap “Pair new device” or look for available devices.
- Select “DualSense Wireless Controller” or “Wireless Controller” from the list of detected Bluetooth devices.
Connect to an iPhone or iPad
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad and go to Bluetooth.
- Keep the Bluetooth screen open to view nearby devices.
- When “DualSense Wireless Controller” appears under Other Devices, tap it.
Confirm the connection
Once connected, the controller’s light bar will turn a solid color, and the controller should appear as “connected” in your phone’s Bluetooth settings. You can now use the controller with any mobile game that supports generic controllers.
What features work on mobile
The DualSense controller uses Bluetooth Version 5.1. It works with mobile games that support generic controllers. However, several features are not compatible with mobile devices: the adaptive triggers feature is not compatible with Android-based mobile devices; the haptic feedback feature is not compatible with Mac computers and mobile devices; the built-in microphone and speaker are not compatible with Mac and mobile devices; and the headset jack feature is not compatible with mobile devices. These features are limited to PS5 console use.
How to reconnect to your PS5 console
To switch the controller back to your PS5, plug the controller into the console with a USB cable and press the PS button. To reconnect the DualSense controller to your PS5 console after using it with a phone, plug the controller into the PS5 with a USB cable and press the PS button. The controller will re-pair with the PS5 automatically.
Troubleshooting common issues
- Controller won’t pair: Restart both your phone and the controller. Ensure Bluetooth is turned on and your phone is discoverable. Check that the controller has sufficient battery charge. Update your phone’s operating system to the latest version. Reset Bluetooth settings on your phone and try pairing again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I connect multiple PS5 controllers to my phone?
Most phones support connecting multiple Bluetooth devices, including multiple DualSense controllers. However, not all games or apps support multiple simultaneous controller inputs, so check the specific game’s compatibility.
Which mobile games are compatible with the DualSense controller?
The controller works with any mobile game that supports generic Bluetooth controllers. Popular titles like Fortnite and Call of Duty Mobile have built-in controller support, and game streaming services such as Xbox Game Pass Ultimate also offer compatibility.
Does the DualSense controller work with all phone models?
Any phone running Android 12 or later or iOS 14.5 or later can connect to the DualSense controller. Older operating system versions may not support the controller, regardless of the phone model.
For the wider topic, see phone as a controller.
