Your Xbox controller can be easily connected to an Android, iPhone, or iPad. However, keep in mind that this only works with iOS 13 or later, as well as the Xbox Wireless Controller with Bluetooth (Model 1708), Xbox Wireless Controller Series S, Xbox Wireless Controller Series X, Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2, and Xbox Adaptive Controller.
To connect your controller to an iPhone, turn on the Xbox controller, press and hold the Connect button for a few seconds to enter pairing mode, and go to Settings > Bluetooth on your iPhone or iPad. Then, simply tap on the name of your controller to connect it to your phone. The question, however, is how do you connect your Xbox controller to an Android phone? This article explains this in detail with important information about how an Xbox controller works with your phone.
Overview
Our pocket devices are becoming increasingly capable of running high-end AAA games, thanks to the rise of game streaming services and the increased power of the best gaming phones. We all know that physical buttons provide the best experience, so we will show you exactly how to connect your Xbox controller to your phone right here.
After all, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate can now be streamed directly to your iPhone or Android device, and more and more Apple Arcade titles are incorporating controller support. It’s time to dust off some buttons if you’re ready to take your mobile gaming to the next level.
How to Connect your Xbox One Wireless Controller to your Android Phone
The first step is to ensure the Xbox One Controller you’re using is Bluetooth enabled. However, the upcoming Xbox One S and Xbox One X models will include Bluetooth as standard. With their button, anyone can classify Xbox One Controllers as Bluetooth or not. The plastic around the Xbox button on the Bluetooth device matches the other parts of the Controller’s colour, whereas the non-Bluetooth Xbox device has different-coloured plastic. To pair your Xbox One with your Android phone, you must select one that has Bluetooth.
The steps for connecting an Xbox One Wireless Controller to an Android phone are listed below.
- Swipe down from the top of your Android phone’s screen to access the Shortcuts (Notification) section.
- To open it, tap and hold the Bluetooth icon.
- Check that the Bluetooth feature is turned on.
- If your phone does not automatically begin scanning for other Bluetooth devices, tap the Scan option on the screen.
- By pressing the Xbox button, you can activate the Xbox One Controller.
- Hold down the sync button on the top of the Xbox controller until the Xbox button begins to blink.
- Tap the Pair new device option on your Android smartphone.
- The Xbox One Controller should now appear in your phone’s Bluetooth list for pairing. If it still does not appear in the Bluetooth list on your phone, tap scan again on your Android device. When the Xbox One Controller appears in the Bluetooth list, tap it to begin pairing.
If everything goes as planned, your Android device connects to your Xbox One Controller, the Controller device appears in the list of paired devices, and the Controller’s light stops blinking.
You can now use your Xbox One Wireless Controller with your Android phone. This device is particularly useful for playing mobile games.
How Can I Verify That My Xbox Controller Supports Bluetooth?
The easiest way to check if you can use your existing controllers is to look at the controller. Bluetooth is present if the area around the Xbox button is made of the same plastic as the rest of the controller. However, if your Xbox button is recessed within a separate piece of plastic, it does not have Bluetooth.
If your Xbox controller has a Share button between the Menu and View buttons, it also supports Bluetooth. These improved controllers debuted alongside the Xbox Series S and Series X consoles. Those who already own the controller should put it through its paces.
You can now play all your favorite games now that your controller is connected! Any of the best Android games with controller support will now be even more enjoyable to play.
How to Connect an Xbox Controller to an iPhone or iPad
An Xbox Series X review controller is propped up against a red wall next to the console.
If you have iOS 13 or later and one of the supported Xbox controllers, follow these steps:
- Start the Xbox controller.
- To enter pairing mode, press and hold the controller’s Connect button for a few seconds. This is usually the Xbox logo button in the controller’s top centre.
- Go to your iPhone or iPad’s Settings > Bluetooth.
- To pair your controller with your phone, tap on its name.
Which Xbox Controllers Are Compatible With iPhone and iPad?
According to Apple, the Xbox controllers that can be used with an iPhone or iPad are as follows:
- Xbox Wireless Controller with Bluetooth (Model 1708)
- Xbox Wireless Controller Series S
- Xbox Wireless Controller Series X
- Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2
- Xbox Adaptive Controller
How to Disconnect an Xbox 360 Controller from an iPhone or iPad
To disconnect an Xbox controller from your iPhone, follow these steps:
- Go to your device’s Settings > Bluetooth.
- Locate the controller’s name in the list of Bluetooth devices.
- Select the More Info option.
- Choose Forget this device.
Controller Support in Android Isn’t New
Technically, you can connect any wired controller if the USB port on your Android device supports On-The-Go (OTG). Phones and tablets use USB Micro-B and USB-C ports for charging and data transfer to and from a connected PC, but OTG supports USB-based devices like mice, keyboards, flash drives, and so on.
Not all devices support OTG, and there’s no easy way to find out if yours does without digging through its product page–which typically lists generic information–or installing a dubious app. You’ll also need an adapter to connect the wired controller’s male USB-A connector to the female Micro-B or USB-C port on the Android device.
Having said that, wireless is the way to go. All controllers connecting to Android, including the Xbox One controller, use Bluetooth. When connected to the Xbox One and certain PCs, Microsoft’s peripheral uses proprietary Wi-Fi technology but switches to Bluetooth for all other devices.
Does Android Support Xbox One Controllers?
Google added Xbox One controller support to Android 9 Pie, but the Xbox One controller requires Bluetooth when used with Android. This component is not present in all models, particularly those that came with the original Xbox One console. The design of the controller can tell you the difference.
The model on the left has a single complete faceplate that extends all the way to the Xbox button and the back edge. A Bluetooth component is included in this model. The original Xbox One controller without Bluetooth is shown on the right. The faceplate and Xbox button housing are distinct components.
In summary, you must fulfil three requirements:
- Android Pie or later
- A Bluetooth-enabled device
- A Bluetooth Xbox Controller
What Xbox Controllers Are Compatible With Android Devices?
With your Android device, you can use two types of Xbox controllers: Xbox Wireless Controllers and Xbox 360 Controllers. The former are Xbox One, Xbox Series S, and Xbox Series X console controllers.
The newer Xbox Wireless Controllers, particularly those with Bluetooth, will be the most convenient to use with your Android device. Bluetooth controllers require you to pair your device with the controller before using it. Because Google added Xbox One controller support with Android 9 Pie, Bluetooth controllers work best; non-Bluetooth controllers will also work in a pinch.
If you have an Xbox One controller that does not have Bluetooth connectivity or an Xbox 360 controller, you can still use both with your Android devices; however, the process is slightly more complicated.
How to Use an Xbox 360 Controller on Android
If you want to use an Xbox 360 controller or a non-Bluetooth Xbox One controller, the process is a little more involved. Of course, it’s still a possibility. If you already have the controller, it may be less expensive to configure it rather than purchase a Bluetooth controller.
- A wired or wireless Xbox 360, Xbox One, or Xbox Core controller is required.
- OTG, or “on the go” cable.
- An Android device that can connect to OTG cables.
- A wireless Xbox 360 receiver (if using a wireless Xbox 360 controller).
Connecting Xbox wired controllers to Android devices is simple:
- Connect your Android device to your OTG cable.
- Connect your controller to the OTG cable’s open USB port. You can also use the OTG cable to connect the wireless receiver of the Xbox 360 controller.
- Start playing your favourite games with it!
The selection of games that support wireless controllers appears to be smaller than those that support wired controllers. Furthermore, most games do not support button mapping when using Xbox 360 controllers, so you’re stuck with whatever the game’s default button layout is.
Which Xbox controller should I use in conjunction with my Android device?
Any Xbox controller will work with your Android device. However, if you can find a version with Bluetooth connectivity, this is the best option; it will make connecting to your device much easier, and you won’t have to deal with pesky cables. However, a cabled controller will most likely save you money. It may be a better option for those who play less frequently.
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References
