While mobile games are mostly optimised for touch screens, some titles still play more comfortably with an actual physical controller despite the on-screen virtual joystick. Not everyone may have a dedicated controller for mobile devices, either - but if you're a console or PC gamer, chances are you already have a handy PS controller stashed comfortably in your gaming nook.
Thankfully, connecting your PlayStation controller to your mobile device is an absolute breeze, whether you're using your trusty ol' DualShock 4 or you've bumped up your gaming paraphernalia with a shiny new PS5 DualSense beauty.
Connecting your PS4/PS5 controller to your iPhone/iOS
First off, you need to make sure that your iOS device is running iOS 13 or higher. Second, simply press and hold the PS button on your DualShock 4 along with the Share button at the same time. This would be the button sporting the PlayStation logo that's smackdab in the middle of your controller, plus the button on the upper-right side of your directional pad.
While holding down these two buttons, you should eventually see the light on your controller blink at regular intervals. When this happens, head on over to your Settings menu, make sure your Bluetooth is turned on, and check for Other Devices. Your controller should pop up as one of the options, and you can easily pair your devices from there.
The same is true for PS5 controllers - you'll just have to hold down on the PS Button and the Create button this time around.
Connecting your PS4/PS5 controller to your Android device
For Android users, be sure you have Android 10 or later running on your device. Similarly, hold down the central PS button and the Share button at the same time until the light on your controller starts double-blinking.
Then, open your Settings and turn on your Bluetooth feature. Specific menu items may vary per device, but in general, you should look for connected devices and how you can scan or pair a new one.
For the PS5 DualSense controller, hold down the PS Button and the Create button on the upper right of the D-pad instead to do the same.
Of course, it's important to bear in mind that not all games will be compatible with your controllers, so if you're looking for a good place to start, you can check out our list of the Top 20 best games with controller support for iPhone and iPad (iOS)!
