Using the console controller to play mobile games can get a more enjoyable, console-like gaming experience. Sony’s remote playback feature allows iOS users to stream their PS4 games on their iPhone and iPad. However, many people are stuck on the main problem that PS4’s DualShock controller cannot connect to iOS devices. If your PS4 Controller Not Connecting to iPhone, you should read this guide to the end.
There are many reasons why the PS4 Controller Not Connecting to iPhone. The controller’s battery may be low. The problem may also be caused by random errors on the iPhone and PS4 controllers. Implement the fix detailed in the next section and see which one works for you.
1. CONNECT IN PAIRING MODE
To connect the PS4 DualShock controller with your iPhone, make sure the controller is in pairing mode. This is because your iPhone (and almost all other devices) can only connect wirelessly to the PS4 DualShock controller when it is in pairing mode. To put the DualShock controller into pairing mode, press and hold the PS button and the share button at the same time for about 35 seconds, until the controller’s light bar flashes rapidly.
Pairing mode (light bar flashes) lasts only 60 seconds. This means that you have time to connect your iPhone to the PS4 controller.
In addition, the controller will exit the pairing mode and will not connect to your iPhone. The point is: you must complete the pairing process quickly.
When the PS4 DualShock controller is in pairing mode, navigate to the Bluetooth settings menu of the iPhone and tap the controller in the list to pair.
If your iPhone cannot recognize or detect the PS4 controller, continue with the troubleshooting tips below.
2. RE-ENABLE BLUETOOTH
Turn off the iPhone’s Bluetooth and turn it on again. Now, try connecting the PS4 controller to the iPhone and check if the pairing process is successful. You can simply turn off Bluetooth from the control center of the iPhone.
NOTE: For iPhone X and newer models, you can access the control center by swiping down from the upper right corner of the screen. For iPhone 8 Plus or earlier models, swipe up from the bottom of the screen to access the control center.
Alternatively, you can also configure iPhone Bluetooth from the “Settings” menu. Go to Settings>Bluetooth and turn off Bluetooth.
Wait a few seconds, re-enable the device’s Bluetooth, and then restart the pairing process (see method 1 above).
Related: How to Play PlayStation Games That Aren’t Available in the US
3. FORGET CONTROLLER
If you previously connected the PS4 controller to the iPhone, but the subsequent connection fails, you need to remove the controller from the iPhone’s Bluetooth device list. This is how to do it.
Step 1: Run the iPhone Settings menu and tap Bluetooth.
Ensure your Bluetooth is already on.
Step 2: Next, click the info icon next to the DualShock Wireless Controller.
Step 3: Pick ‘Forget This Device’ and click ‘Forget Device’ on the prompt.
The PS4 controller will be removed from your iPhone’s Bluetooth device list. Now, try to pair the controller with the iPhone or iPad again and check if the connection is activated. If this does not work, try the other solutions listed below.
4. CHARGE CONTROLLER
Low battery power is another reason that may prevent the DualShock controller from connecting to any device. Before putting the controller in pairing mode, make sure that it is fully charged. If the controller cannot connect to the iPhone, check the battery level on the TV screen.
The following is how to check the battery level of the PS4 DualShock controller.
Step 1: Connect the controller to the PS4 console and click the share button. This will open the PS4 share menu.
Step 2: Check the battery icon at the bottom of the menu to see the battery life of the controller.
If the controller battery is low, plug it into the microUSB power supply for a few minutes to recharge, and then try to pair it with the iPhone or iPad again.
5. RESTART IPHONE
Yes, this simple action can sometimes produce magic. Turn off your iPhone, turn it on again, and then pair the PS4 controller with your device again.
Note: There are multiple ways to restart iPhone, which depend largely on the model. If you’re not sure, follow Apple’s official support guide to restart your iPhone.
6. UPDATE IOS
The PS4 DualShock controller is only compatible with iPhones running iOS 13 or later. If your iPhone is running iOS 12 or earlier, you need to update your iPhone. To check the available iOS updates on your iPhone, please visit Settings > General > Software Update.
7. RESET THE CONTROLLER
Hard resetting the DualShock controller to factory default settings is another effective way to solve the pairing problem. Follow the steps below to reset your PS4 controller.
Step 1: Rotate the controller and find a small hole near the back of the left shoulder button.
Step 2: Use the tip of a paperclip or the SIM card ejector to press the reset button in the small hole for about 3 to 5 seconds.
This will reset the DualShock controller to its factory default settings and eliminate any glitches preventing it from connecting to the iPhone.
Then put the controller in pairing mode and check if it is connected to your iPhone.
MOBILE IS THE NEW CONSOLE
Connect the PS4 DualShock controller to your iPhone, and you will enjoy better navigation and overall gaming experience in first-person shooter (FPS) games and other iPhone games that require aiming precision and accuracy. This is better than using screen controls. If your PS4 Controller Not Connecting to iPhone, please check the above solutions to solve the problem.
Related: How to Disable Vibrations on the Xbox Series X|S and PS5 Controllers
