Are you tired of playing iPhone games using awkward touchscreen controls? Whether you're into first-person shooters, racing games, or story-driven RPGs, there's one simple upgrade that can totally change your mobile gaming experience — using a PS5 DualSense controller.
In this comprehensive guide, you'll learn exactly how to connect a PS5 controller to your iPhone, why it’s worth doing, how to disconnect or troubleshoot it, and what types of games work best with it.
Let’s get into it!
Why Use a PS5 Controller With iPhone?
Touchscreen controls are fine for casual games, but they just don’t compare to the precision, comfort, and responsiveness of a physical controller. The PlayStation 5 DualSense controller is widely considered one of the best gamepads ever made — and now, thanks to iOS 14.5 and later, it works flawlessly with iPhones.
Here’s what makes the PS5 controller a game-changer for mobile gamers:
- Precise control with thumbsticks, triggers, and buttons
- Muscle memory from console gaming transfers directly
- Works with a wide range of iOS games and apps
- Perfect for cloud gaming (like Xbox Cloud or PS Remote Play)
- Much better ergonomics than holding a phone for hours
What You Need to Get Started
Before you start pairing, make sure you’ve got everything ready. Here's a quick checklist:
- An iPhone running iOS 14.5 or newer
- A PS5 DualSense Wireless Controller
- Bluetooth enabled on your iPhone
- At least one controller-compatible game downloaded
Note: This process also works on iPads (iPadOS 14.5+) and Apple TV (tvOS 14.5+), in case you want to expand your gaming setup.
Step-by-Step: How to Connect a PS5 Controller to iPhone
Step 1: Turn On Bluetooth on Your iPhone
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap Bluetooth.
- Make sure the switch is set to ON.
- Stay on this screen — you’ll need it to pair.
Tip: You can also enable Bluetooth from the Control Center (swipe down from the top-right of the screen), but it’s easier to pair from Settings.
Step 2: Put the PS5 Controller Into Pairing Mode
- On your DualSense controller, press and hold the PS button and the Create button at the same time.
- Hold for about 3–5 seconds until the light bar starts blinking rapidly.
- This means the controller is in Bluetooth pairing mode and ready to connect.
- The Create button is the small one to the left of the touchpad.
Step 3: Connect the Controller to Your iPhone
- On the iPhone Bluetooth screen, you should see “DualSense Wireless Controller” appear under Other Devices.
- Tap it to connect.
- Once paired, it will show as Connected under My Devices, and the controller’s light will stop flashing.
Boom — you’re now connected!
Which iPhone Games Support the PS5 Controller?
Not every game supports controllers, but many of the most popular titles on iOS do. Here are some you can try right now:
Controller-Compatible iOS Games:
- Call of Duty Mobile
- Genshin Impact
- Minecraft
- Fortnite (via cloud)
- NBA 2K Mobile
- Asphalt 9: Legends
- Dead Cells
- Stardew Valley
- GRID Autosport
- Apple Arcade Games like:
- Skate City
- Sonic Racing
- Oceanhorn 2
- Hot Lava
For the best experience, look for games that explicitly mention “controller support” in their App Store description.
How to Disconnect or Unpair the Controller
If you’re done gaming or want to switch the controller back to your PS5, here’s how to unpair it.
To Temporarily Disconnect:
- Go to Settings > Bluetooth.
- Tap the (i) icon next to "DualSense Wireless Controller".
- Tap Disconnect.
To Completely Unpair:
- Same steps as above.
- Instead of Disconnect, tap Forget This Device.
- This will remove the controller from your iPhone’s memory.
To reconnect later, you’ll need to repeat the pairing process.
Troubleshooting: PS5 Controller Not Connecting to iPhone?
Here are some common problems and how to fix them:
Problem: Controller not showing up?
- Make sure it’s in pairing mode (light should blink rapidly).
- Turn Bluetooth off and back on.
- Restart your iPhone and the controller.
- Try charging the controller before pairing again.
Problem: Connected but doesn’t work in game?
- Not all games support controllers — check the App Store description.
- Try another game known to support controllers.
- Update your iOS to the latest version.
Bonus: Use Your Controller With PS Remote Play
Did you know you can stream your PS5 games directly to your iPhone using the PS Remote Play app?
Here’s how it works:
- Download PS Remote Play from the App Store.
- Log in with your PlayStation Network account.
- Follow the on-screen steps to connect to your console.
- Pair your PS5 controller using the steps above.
- Start playing PS5 games from anywhere — even away from home.
It’s a fantastic option if your TV is in use, or you just want to game from bed.
Pro Tips for Mobile Gaming With a Controller
- Use a phone clip or stand for hands-free gaming.
- Pair wireless earbuds for immersive audio.
- Keep your controller charged — iPhones don’t charge it.
- If input feels delayed, reduce Bluetooth interference (avoid crowded wireless environments).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Does the PS5 controller’s haptic feedback work on iPhone?
A: Not fully. While basic vibration works in some games, advanced haptics and adaptive triggers aren't fully supported on iOS yet.
Q: Can I connect more than one PS5 controller to an iPhone?
A: iPhones currently support one controller at a time for most games.
Q: Can I use this controller with other Apple devices?
A: Yes! It works with iPads, Macs, and Apple TVs running the latest OS versions.
Q: Will this drain my battery?
A: Using Bluetooth for gaming can slightly reduce your iPhone's battery life, so keep a charger nearby if you're gaming for long sessions.
Final Thoughts
Using a PS5 DualSense controller with your iPhone is a quick and easy upgrade for any mobile gamer. Whether you're diving into competitive shooters, racing across digital tracks, or just chilling with Apple Arcade, having a physical controller makes everything smoother and more immersive.
It only takes a minute to set up — and once you try it, you’ll never want to go back to on-screen buttons again.