How to Connect PS5 Controller to Phone?  

As of 2024, gaming consoles like PS and Xbox are still not portable. But if you are like me, then you might have thought about playing games on your phone using the PS5 controller. I did the research and decided to connect my PS5 controller to my phone. However, it was tough because nobody was talking about it. 

Moreover, I was concerned whether the idea would work or not. Hence, I decided to go further and tried ways to connect PS5 controller to my phone. I had an Android smartphone and connected it to the controller using Bluetooth. It worked. I tested the gameplay experience and to be honest, it was amazing. 

I also tried to connect the controller to the phone using a USB cable. Although I had to buy an adapter, it was a deal worth the money. After using the wire, I immediately observed low latency and enhanced gaming experience. Want to know how I did it? Read this guide until the end to learn How to Connect PS5 Controller to Phone.

How to Connect PS5 Controller to Phone?

I have discovered two methods using which you can connect PS5 controller to your phone:

Method 1: How to Connect PS5 Controller to Phone? – Wireless connection

Method 2: How to Connect PS5 Controller to Phone? – Wired Connection

Both methods will effectively work. The choice of method completely depends on your preference and the resources available. Here are the details:

Method 1: How to Connect PS5 Controller to Phone? – Wireless connection

Ensure that your PS5 Dual Shock controller and Phone are nearby. Then follow these steps: 

Step 1: Enable Bluetooth Pairing Mode on PS5 Controller

While the PS5 Controller is turned off, press the “PS” and “Connect/Broadcast” buttons for about 5 seconds. A blue light will blink, indicating that your PS5 Controller has entered Bluetooth pairing mode and is discoverable to nearby devices.

Step 2: Access Bluetooth Settings on your Android Device

Swipe down from the top of the screen to access quick settings. Then press the Bluetooth icon to turn it on and long-press it to open Bluetooth settings. 

Step 3: Connect PS5 Controller to Android 

After opening Bluetooth settings, search for available devices and wait until “Dual Shock Controller” appears on the screen. Tap on this device to complete the connection process. The blue light on your PS5 controller will turn solid. This indicates that your PS5 controller is paired with a device via Bluetooth. 

How to Connect PS5 Controller to iPhone? – Wireless connection

You might be wondering How to Connect PS5 Controller to iPhone? Well, all you need is to ensure that your PS5 Dual Shock controller and iPhone are nearby. Then follow these steps: 

Step 1: Enable Bluetooth Pairing Mode on PS5 Controller

While the PS5 Controller is turned off, press the “PS” and “Connect/Broadcast” buttons for about 5 seconds. A blue light will blink, indicating that your PS5 Controller has entered Bluetooth pairing mode and is discoverable to nearby devices.

Step 2: Access Bluetooth Settings on your iPhone

Swipe down from the top right corner of the screen to access the control center. Then press the Bluetooth icon to turn it on and long-press it to open Bluetooth settings. 

Step 3: Connect PS5 Controller to iPhone

After opening Bluetooth settings, search for available devices and wait until “Dual Shock Controller” appears on the screen. Tap on this device to complete the connection process. The blue light on your PS5 controller will turn solid. This indicates that your PS5 controller is paired with your iPhone via Bluetooth. 

Method 2: How to Connect PS5 Controller to Phone? – Wired connection

If you have an Android smartphone or a Tablet and want to pair your PS5 controller with it using a USB cable, then this guide is for you. Before trying this method, ensure that you have a USB cable (Type C or Micro USB) and a USB-Mini display port dongle. Then follow these steps:

Step 1: Turn On the PS5 Controller 

Press and hold the PS button on your PS5 controller to turn it on. 

Step 2: Insert the USB Cable in your Android Device

Insert the USB cable into your Android device and connect the USB-Mini Display port dongle on the other end of the USB cable. 

Step 3: Connect PS5 Controller to Android Using USB Cable 

Insert the mini display cable end into your PS5 controller. As the controller recognizes the connection, a solid orange light will appear. This indicates that your PS5 controller has been successfully connected to the Android device.

How to Connect PS5 Controller to iPhone? – Wired connection

Depending on the model of your iPhone, get a USB Type-C or a lightning cable along with an adapter to connect with the PS5 controller. Then follow these steps: 

Step 1: Turn On the PS5 Controller 

Press and hold the PS button on your PS5 controller to turn it on. 

Step 2: Connect iPhone to USB Cable 

Insert the lighting/Type-C cable into your iPhone and connect the USB-Mini Display port adapter on the other end of the USB cable. 

Step 3: Connect PS5 Controller to Android Using USB Cable 

Insert the mini display cable end into your PS5 controller. As the controller recognizes the connection, a solid orange light will appear. This indicates that the PS5 controller has been successfully connected to your iPhone.

Unable to Connect PS5 Controller to Phone

If the PS5 Controller appears on the Bluetooth devices list but fails to pair, follow these troubleshooting steps:

1. Check the Allowed Limit of Connected Bluetooth Devices on Your Phone

Ensure you have not exceeded the number of allowed Bluetooth connections on your phone. If you have, then delete any previous device and try connecting the PS5 controller again.

2. Ensure that your PS5 Controller has enough charge 

If the PS5 controller is low on battery, it will not connect to your phone. Hence, keep the controller charged before you begin the connection process. 

3. Ensure that your PS5 Controller is not connected to another device 

If the PS5 controller is already paired with and connected to another device, then your phone will not be able to connect with the controller. 

Conclusion

This concludes my step-by-step guide on How to connect a PS5 Controller to a Phone. PS5 controller coupled with your phone can enhance the gaming experience without investing in a full-fledged gaming console. I understand that the experience will not be the same, however, playing games on a phone is similar to having a portable gaming console. 

If you have any general or technical questions, drop them in the comments section, and I will be there to help you. 

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