How to Connect PS5 Controller to Phone: Complete Guide
The PlayStation 5 DualSense controller is one of the best gaming controllers ever made, offering advanced haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and a comfortable design. But did you know you can use your PS5 controller with your smartphone for mobile gaming, emulators, or even Remote Play? Many gamers ask: How to connect PS5 controller to phone? or How do I pair my PS5 controller with Bluetooth?
In this detailed guide, we will explain everything you need to know, including how to connect your PS5 controller to Android, iPhone, iPad, and even PC or laptop. We will also cover troubleshooting tips if your controller won’t connect and answer the most common questions.
Why Connect a PS5 Controller to Your Phone?
Before jumping into the “how-to,” let’s discuss why so many gamers want to connect a PS5 controller to a phone.
Mobile Gaming
Many popular mobile games such as Call of Duty Mobile, Genshin Impact, and Fortnite support external controllers
PS Remote Play
Sony’s PS Remote Play app lets you stream PS5 or PS4 games directly to your phone
Cloud Gaming
Services like Xbox Cloud Gaming, NVIDIA GeForce Now, and Steam Link allow you to play console-quality games
Better Controls
A controller is much more accurate than touch controls, especially for shooters, racing, or action games
So, learning how to connect your PS5 controller to your phone opens up endless possibilities for gaming on the go.
How to Connect PS5 Controller to Phone (Step-by-Step)
Whether you are using Android or iPhone, the process is almost the same. Here’s the step-by-step guide:
Enable Bluetooth on Your Phone
On Android, swipe down from the top and hold the Bluetooth icon. On iPhone/iPad, go to Settings > Bluetooth and make sure it is turned on.
Put Your PS5 Controller in Pairing Mode
Press and hold the PS button (center) and the Create/Share button (left of the touchpad) at the same time. Keep holding until the light bar starts blinking blue.
Connect the Controller to Your Phone
On your phone’s Bluetooth menu, look for “DualSense Wireless Controller.” Tap it to pair. Once connected, the light bar will glow a steady color.
And that’s it — your PS5 controller is now paired to your phone.
How to Connect PS5 Controller to Android Phone
If you’re wondering how to connect PS5 controller to Android phone, the process is straightforward. Most Android devices (Android 10 and above) fully support the DualSense controller.
- Go to Settings > Bluetooth
- Put the controller in pairing mode
- Select DualSense Wireless Controller
- Test it in a game like Call of Duty Mobile or Fortnite
If your controller is not working on Android, try updating your phone software and ensure the game supports controllers.
How to Connect PS5 Controller to iPhone and iPad
For iOS users asking how to connect PS5 controller to iPhone or how to connect PS5 controller to iPad:
- Update your iOS to 14.5 or later (older versions don’t support DualSense)
- Turn on Bluetooth in Settings > Bluetooth
- Put your controller in pairing mode
- Select DualSense Wireless Controller
Once connected, you can use it for Apple Arcade, Remote Play, and supported App Store games.
How to Connect PS5 Controller to Phone for Remote Play
One of the best uses of connecting your controller to your phone is PS Remote Play. Here’s how:
Download the App
Download the PS Remote Play app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store
Log In
Log in with your PlayStation Network account
Pair Controller
Pair your PS5 controller to your phone via Bluetooth
Connect to Console
Connect to your PS5 console remotely
Now you can stream and play PS5 or PS4 games directly on your phone with full DualSense support.
How to Connect PS5 Controller to PC and Laptop
Since many players search how to connect PS5 controller to PC or how to connect PS5 controller to laptop, here are the two main methods:
Method 1: USB Cable
- Plug your controller into the PC using a USB-C cable
- Windows will automatically detect it
- Works best with Steam games
Method 2: Bluetooth
- Enable Bluetooth on your PC
- Hold the PS + Create button until the controller flashes
- Select DualSense Wireless Controller on your PC
For full compatibility, Steam has built-in DualSense support, but some games may require DS4Windows software.
Troubleshooting: Why Is My PS5 Controller Not Connecting?
If your PS5 controller is not working with your phone, try these fixes:
Restart Devices
Restart your phone and try again
Re-pair Controller
Unpair and re-pair the controller
Update Software
Update phone software to the latest version
Check Game Support
Check if the game supports external controllers
Reset Controller
Reset the controller by pressing the small hole on the back with a pin
Official PlayStation Resources
FAQs About Connecting PS5 Controller to Phone
Enable Bluetooth, put the controller in pairing mode, and select DualSense Wireless Controller in your phone settings.
Hold PS + Create/Share button until the light blinks, then connect via Bluetooth settings.
Yes, you can connect your PS5 controller to mobile for games, emulators, and PS Remote Play.
Make sure your Android is updated and the game supports controllers. If issues persist, reset the controller.
No, only controller-supported games work. Apple Arcade games are fully supported.
The Create/Share button is used for screenshots, video clips, and also helps enter Bluetooth pairing mode.
For comparison, many users also ask how to connect PS4 controller to phone. The process is the same as PS5: Hold PS + Share button until the light flashes, then pair via Bluetooth settings on your phone. Select “Wireless Controller”. The PS5 controller offers more advanced features, but the PS4 controller is still a good option.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to connect PS5 controller to phone is easy and opens a new level of gaming. Whether you’re using Android, iPhone, iPad, or even Remote Play, the DualSense controller makes mobile gaming smoother, more responsive, and closer to console quality. With a simple Bluetooth connection, you can enjoy your favorite games anywhere.
If your controller isn’t connecting, check software updates, reset your controller, or use a wired connection as a backup.
For more gaming guides, controller troubleshooting, and testing tools, visit Gamepad Tester Online – your ultimate resource for all things game controllers.