How to connect a PS4 or Xbox controller to your iPad

With Apple’s latest update, iOS 13 and iPadOS 13, they’ve enhanced the support of using any external controllers on your Apple device, be it an iPhone or iPad.

Since the WWDC 2019, Apple have also released the Apple Arcade which holds exclusive Apple games and many other exciting games. Coming at a price of £4.99 a month, your first month being free. So, why wouldn’t you want to enhance your gaming with connecting an actual PS4/Xbox controller? (The game has to support this)

Can I use any controller?

No. Although iPhone and iPad support game controllers, they have to be certified using the MFi (Made for iPhone) program. However, with the new OS they’re adding support for more wireless controllers, but the system isn’t open for all Bluetooth-based wireless controllers. Only PS4 Dualshock 4 and Xbox One controllers are currently supported, unfortunately the Nintendo Switch controller still remains unavailable.

How to connect your controller

You can connect your controller simply by using the Bluetooth section in the Settings app. Make sure the Bluetooth is on and you’re all set to go.

PS4 Dualshock 4 Controller

To connect your PS4 controller, you first need to put it in ‘pairing mode’. On the controller, simply press and hold the ‘PS’ and ‘Share’ button together until the light at the back of the controller turns white and starts blinking rapidly.

Xbox One S Controller

For Xbox users, press and hold the ‘Pairing’ button at the back of the controller. If this is the first time you’re pairing the controller with any device, instead press and hold the ‘Xbox’ button.

If you take a look back at your Apple device, in the Bluetooth tab, you’ll see under ‘Other Devices’ the PS4 or Xbox controller that you’re trying to pair. Simply tap on the controller you’d like to use and you’re all set to go.

How to disconnect the controller

You can quickly disconnect the controller using the new expandable Bluetooth menu from the Control Centre.

On your Apple device, simply swipe down from the top-right corner and the Control Centre will appear. Tap and hold the Bluetooth button to then expand that menu and you’ll find the paired controller, just simply tap on the paired controller to disconnect it. To reconnect, go back to the same menu and tap on the controller.

Unpair the controller

To unpair the controller you’ll have to go back to the ‘Bluetooth’ tab in the Settings app. Locate the controller you’re using and press the ‘i’ button next to it.

After that, a menu will pop up and simply press the ‘Forget This Device’ button.

How to play games with the controller on your iPhone and iPad

Controller support on Apple devices have been around for years, so a lot of popular games already support it. Once you’ve connected your controller, go to whichever game’s settings page to check if you can switch to the controller mode.

If you’re playing games from the Apple Arcade, the controller will be activated automatically when you launch the game. Apple Arcade also highlight controller support for a game right at the top of the listing.

Controller support is just one of the new features in iOS 13. Once you’ve paired your controller, enable dark mode to make those late-night gaming sessions easier on your eyes.