Connecting a PS5 controller to an iPhone enriches the gaming experience by bringing the tactile precision of console gaming to the mobile platform. With the advent of iOS 14.5, pairing a PS5 controller with an iPhone has become seamless. We’ve found that using Bluetooth connectivity, the PS5’s DualSense controller easily syncs with the iPhone, allowing for a more immersive gaming session with games that support controller gameplay.
Before attempting to pair, ensure that your iPhone is updated to at least iOS 14.5, as earlier versions do not support the PS5 controller’s connectivity features. In our experience, the Bluetooth settings on the iPhone are intuitive, making it straightforward to initiate pairing. Pressing and holding the PS5 controller’s Share and PS buttons simultaneously puts the controller into pairing mode. Once the controller’s light bar begins to flash, it should appear in the iPhone’s Bluetooth menu for a quick and easy connection.
Contents
Preparing Your PS5 Controller for Pairing
Before we can play our favorite games on the iPhone with the PS5 DualSense controller, we must ensure the controller is properly paired. We’ll guide you through putting the controller into pairing mode and checking your iPhone’s software to make sure everything is compatible.
Entering Pairing Mode on the PS5 DualSense Controller
To start, the PS5 DualSense controller needs to be in pairing mode. Here’s how we do it:
1. Turn off the PS5 DualSense controller to ensure it’s not connected to another device, such as your PS5 console.
2. Hold down the PS button and the Share button simultaneously until the light bar at the top of the controller begins to flash.
This flashing light confirms that our DualSense is in pairing mode and is ready to connect to the iPhone.
Verifying Your iPhone’s Software Compatibility
Next, we need to ensure our iPhone is ready to communicate with the controller. This step is crucial because the PS5 controller support was introduced with iOS 14.5. Therefore, the iPhone must be updated to at least this version or higher to pair successfully. Checking software compatibility is simple:
To check for software updates:
1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
2. Tap General, then Software Update.
3. If your iPhone isn’t already using iOS 14.5 or newer, install the available update.
With the DualSense in pairing mode and the iPhone’s software up to date, we are now ready to proceed with connecting the two devices.
Connecting the PS5 Controller to Your iPhone
We’ll guide you through the steps to connect the PS5 DualSense controller to your iPhone. This process uses the iPhone’s Bluetooth settings and requires the controller to be in pairing mode.
First, ensure your iPhone’s Bluetooth is enabled. We do this by opening the Settings app on your iPhone and tapping Bluetooth.
Make certain that the Bluetooth toggle is switched to the on position. The screen will then display a list of devices available for pairing under “Other Devices.”
Selecting the PS5 Controller from the Devices List
With the iPhone’s Bluetooth settings open, it’s now time to put your PS5 controller into pairing mode. Hold the Share button and the central PlayStation logo button simultaneously until the controller’s light bar begins to flash.
| Look for “DualSense Wireless Controller” under “Other Devices.” |
| Once you see it, tap to pair your controller with your iPhone. |
| When connected, the controller’s LEDs will display a stable light, signaling a successful connection. |
Troubleshooting Connection Issues
If the PS5 controller doesn’t connect, it’s crucial to perform some quick troubleshooting. Double-check that the controller is in pairing mode, with the light bar flashing. If the controller appears in the device list but refuses to connect, try to tap the PS button again.
Sometimes, if the controller has been connected to another device like a PS5 console, you may need to manually disconnect it from there first. If problems persist, consider restarting both the controller and your iPhone, then attempt to pair again.
Maximizing the Gaming Experience
When we talk about enhancing your iPhone gaming experience with a PS5 controller, there are several key aspects to focus on. We’ll explore how to find games that support controllers, customize your gameplay with button remapping, and maintain your controller’s battery life to keep you playing longer.
Discovering Games with Controller Support
Finding games that are compatible with your PS5 controller can transform your gaming sessions. Apple Arcade, a subscription service filled with hundreds of games, supports controllers across its library. Additionally, the App Store includes many games that highlight controller support in their descriptions. Here’s a simple guide for identifying these games:
Apple Arcade: Every game within Apple Arcade is designed to work seamlessly with controllers.
App Store: Look for the “Controller Supported” badge in the game’s detail page.
Customizing Controller Buttons in Apple Games
To tailor your gaming experience, Apple’s iOS allows you to customize the controller buttons for different games. This can be essential for Apple Arcade games where you might want to have a specific layout that feels more intuitive or comfortable. Here’s how to customize your controller buttons:
- Go into Settings on your iPhone or iPad.
- Navigate to General > Game Controller.
- Select your controller to access the customization menu.
Managing Battery Life for Extended Play
Long gaming sessions demand a controller with a battery that can keep up. To ensure your PS5 controller maintains a charge during those lengthy Apple Arcade marathons, here are a few tips:
- Charge your controller fully before starting your gaming session.
- Adjust the brightness of the controller’s lightbar to a lower setting to conserve battery.
By closely managing these settings, we can extend our playtime without the worry of our controller dying at a critical moment.
Expanding Beyond iPhone
While pairing your PS5 controller with an iPhone is straightforward, we can also extend the gameplay experience to other devices within the Apple ecosystem and even consider some third-party platform interactions.
Connecting to Other Apple Devices
Connecting the PS5 controller doesn’t end with the iPhone. iPads, Apple TV, and Macs also offer native support. For using the controller with an iPad, the process mirrors that of the iPhone. On Apple TV, navigate to the Remotes and Devices section in Settings, then choose Bluetooth. For Macs, access the Bluetooth preferences via the System Preferences, find the PS5 controller in the list, and pair it.
Remote Play is another cool feature we can use on these devices to stream games directly from our PS5 console. It’s especially handy for Apple TVs and Macs, turning them into great gaming stations.
Playing on Third-Party Platforms
Our PS5 controller is not chained only to Apple products. Android phones can also make use of the DualSense controller. On your Android device, turn on Bluetooth and pair it just like any other Bluetooth accessory. Checking for compatibility on third-party websites for games and apps that support the controller is a good idea.
| Device Type | Connection Method | Compatible with PS5 Controller |
| iPad | Bluetooth settings | Yes |
| Apple TV | Remotes and Devices section | Yes |
| Mac | System Preferences | Yes |
| Android Phone | Bluetooth settings | Yes |
Before exploring remote play on third-party platforms, it’s crucial to visit their respective websites or applications to ensure they support the feature. This way, we not only broaden our gaming horizon but also maximize the value of our PS5 controller.