A DualShock 4 controller can be paired with many Android phones and tablets over Bluetooth, making mobile games, emulators, cloud gaming apps, and Remote Play easier to control. Setup is usually simple, but controller support depends on the Android device, app, and game you are using.
Table Of Contents
Put the DualShock 4 in Pairing Mode
- Make sure the controller is turned off.
- Hold the Share button and the PS button at the same time.
- Keep holding until the light bar starts flashing.
- The controller is now ready to pair.
Pair It with Android
- Open Settings on your Android device.
- Go to Bluetooth or Connected devices.
- Select Pair new device.
- Choose Wireless Controller or DUALSHOCK 4 Wireless Controller.
- Confirm the pairing request.
Once paired, the light bar should stop flashing and show a steady colour. Open a game or app with controller support to test the buttons and sticks.
Use It with PS Remote Play
If you are using the controller for PS Remote Play, open the Remote Play app after pairing the controller. Some Android devices support DualShock 4 input better than others, so update Android and the Remote Play app if the controller is detected but buttons do not respond correctly.
Fix Common Pairing Problems
If the controller does not appear in the Bluetooth list, turn Bluetooth off and back on, then put the controller into pairing mode again. If it keeps reconnecting to a PlayStation console, turn the console off or move farther away while pairing. You can also reset the controller with the small button on the back near L2.
Input Lag and Range
Bluetooth performance varies between Android devices. If input feels delayed, sit closer to the device, reduce other Bluetooth activity, and close background apps. For cloud gaming or Remote Play, network latency can feel like controller lag, so check Wi-Fi quality as well.
Reconnect to PlayStation Later
After pairing the DualShock 4 with Android, it may no longer connect to your PlayStation automatically. To reconnect it to a PS4, plug it into the console with a USB cable and press the PS button. On PS5, the DualShock 4 can be used for supported PS4 games, but not for playing PS5 games.
Best Uses on Android
The DualShock 4 is a strong option for games with proper controller support, Remote Play sessions, retro games, and streaming apps. For the best experience, use a phone or tablet stand and turn the controller off after playing so the battery does not drain unnecessarily.
