Guides

How to Connect PS4 Controller to iPhone & iPad (iOS 13 & iPad OS)

connect ps4 controller to iphone and ipad

With the release of iOS 13 and iPad OS, it’s now actually incredibly simple to connect your PS4 controller to your iPhone or iPad. In this guide, we’ll quickly run you through the steps of everything you need to know on how to connect PS4 controllers to an iPhone and iPad.

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Connecting a DualShock 4 PS4 Controller to Your iPhone or iPad

Ensure Your iPhone or iPad is on iOS 13/ iPad OS

First off, you’ll want to make sure that you’ve downloaded and updated to iOS 13 or iPad OS. This is available for most Apple devices right now, and makes connecting any bluetooth controller to your device much easier.

To update to iOS 13 or iPad OS, go to Settings, General, Software Update. Your device should then automatically find the most recent available update if there is one. If not, you’re already on iOS 13 or iPad OS.

Turn on Bluetooth

The next thing you’ll need to do on your iPhone or iPad is turn on your bluetooth. Yep, the PS4’s DualShock 4 controller uses Bluetooth to connect, but we’ll get around to how to get these two paired up in a minute.

For now, just tap ‘Settings’ on your Apple device, and then Bluetooth. Ensure that the little switch is turned to green.

Pairing Your PS4 Controller to iPhone and iPad

connect ps4 controller to iphone and ipad

Now that you’ve got your iPad or iPhone all ready, pick up your DualShock 4 controller. You need to put the controller in its pairing mode. This is done by pressing and holding the Share button and PlayStation button (the Home button) for about five seconds.

You’ll know the controller is in pairing mode as the light bar will begin flashing. Look at your iPhone or iPad’s Bluetooth screen and under ‘Other Devices’ you should now see ‘DUALSHOCK 4 Wireless Controller.’ Simply tap on this and the devices will pair.

Congratulations, you’ve just connected your PS4 controller to your iPhone or iPad. This can now be used to play all kinds of games, including those that have released as part of Apple Arcade.

How to Connect a PS4 Controller to iPhone/ iPad

  1. Update to iOS 13 or iPad OS

  2. Tap ‘Settings’

  3. Select ‘Bluetooth’ and turn it on.

  4. Press and hold the Share and PlayStation buttons on your DualShock 4 PS4 controller for about 5 seconds.

  5. Tap ‘DualShock 4’ under ‘Available Devices.’

  6. You’re Now All Connected.

That’s everything you need to know about how to connect your PS4 controller to an iPhone or iPad. Now go, be free, enjoy games without having to tap the screen incessantly! For more tips, tricks, and guides, be sure to search for Twinfinite.

About the author

Chris Jecks

Chris is the Managing Editor of Twinfinite. Chris has been with the site and covering the games media industry for eight years. He typically covers new releases, FIFA, Fortnite and any good shooters for the site, and loves nothing more than a good Pro Clubs session with the lads. Chris has a History degree from the University of Central Lancashire. He spends his days eagerly awaiting the release of BioShock 4.

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