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Why Won’t My Controller Connect to my iPhone? (Xbox, PS4, PS5, Other Controllers)

As an iPhone owner, I have had my fair share of frustrations when trying to connect a controller to my iPhone. Recently, I have been running into a recurring issue of my controller not connecting to my phone no matter what I try.

After much research and testing, I have finally figured out a solution, and I am here to share it with you so that you can save time and avoid the same frustrations I faced. In this blog post, I will discuss why your controller won’t connect to your iPhone and provide several solutions that can help you get connected quickly.

However, some users might have difficulty connecting their controllers to iPhones. Glitches on both devices commonly cause these connection errors. If you’re having these issues, you must’ve wondered, “why won’t my controller connect to my iPhone?” 

IssuePossible causesPossible solutions
Controller not connecting to iPhoneDead batteryEnsure the controller is fully charged and the batteries are installed correctly. Purchase a new cable if necessary.
Outdated firmwareUpdate the controller wirelessly or via USB cable.
Outdated iPhone softwareUpdate the iPhone software.
Technical glitchRestart the iPhone or controller. Reset the controller if necessary. Contact customer support if all else fails.

Why Won’t My Controller Connect to my iPhone? (Xbox, PS4, PS5, Other Controllers)

Modern devices like iPhones and controllers aren’t impervious to technical issues. Here are the common bugs that you should look out for, including their easy fixes:

  1. Dead Battery

The simplest reason an Xbox and PlayStation controller won’t connect to an iPhone is its batteries. 

If the batteries have completely run out, they won’t be able to connect to your iPhone anymore. Ensure that the controller is fully charged. Make sure too that the batteries are installed correctly.

In case your controller doesn’t charge properly, it might be a defective cable. If so, you might need to purchase a new one.

  1. Outdated Controller Firmware

One of the major causes of connecting errors between controllers and iPhones is outdated firmware on your controller. If you’re using an Xbox, you can either update it wirelessly or via a USB cable. 

First, make sure that your controller has a 3.5 mm headphone port located at the bottom. If it doesn’t have one, you can only update it through a USB cable. 

For a wireless update, plug in the stereo headset adapter and press the Xbox button. Select Settings in the System Menu, then open Devices and Connections. 

After clicking Accessories, choose the controller that you need to update. Select the firmware version available, and click Update Now.

Then, to update using a USB cable, simply plug in a USB cable to your controller and connect the other end to the USB port on your Xbox. An Update Prompt will automatically appear, then click Update Now. 

Moreover, if you’re using a PlayStation controller, you can simply go to Settings and Select System Software Update. Lastly, click Update Now.

  1. Outdated iPhone Software

An outdated iPhone software can cause connection issues. So, you should make sure the system is updated. 

Navigate to Settings, then choose Software Update in the General Menu. If your iPhone isn’t up to date, a new update will be available. Click Update and Install. 

What Other Fixes Can You Try to Help Connect Controllers to Your iPhone?

If the mentioned fixes above haven’t resolved the connection issue, here are other possible solutions that you can try:

  1. Restart Your iPhone

Sometimes, a simple solution such as restarting your iPhone can solve the connectivity issue. 

Press and hold the Power button and Volume Up button until the Apple logo appears. Wait for five minutes before turning it back on.

Once turned on, pair your iPhone to your controller again.

  1. Restart Your Controller

Restarting your Xbox or PlayStation controller can be an effective quick fix for when you’re having trouble connecting your controllers and iPhone. 

To restart an Xbox controller, press the Xbox button on the controller. Select Profile and System, then go to Settings. In the General Menu, choose Power Mode and Star-Up. Then click Restart Now. 

If you’re restarting a PlayStation, press and hold the Power button on the console. Once you hear it beeps, release the button. Unplug the Power cable from the console and wait for three minutes before plugging it back in and turning on your controller.

  1. Reset Your Controller

If restarting didn’t resolve the connection problem, try resetting your controller instead. 

To do so, press and hold the Power button of your PlayStation controller. Then, using a pointed tool like a bent paper clip, press and hold the button located inside the small hole at the back of your controller. After five seconds, turn the device back on.

Furthermore, if you’re resetting your Xbox controller, press the Xbox button on the console, Navigate to Profile and System, then go to Settings. Choose Console info in the System Menu, and select Reset Console.

If you’ve tried all the suggested solutions above, calling in a professional technician is your best option. You can always just reach out to PlayStation Customer Support and Xbox Support.

Wrapping Up

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There you have it! Your ultimate guide for when you’re having difficulties connecting your controller to your iPhone.

So, the next time you encounter the same problem, you won’t have to wonder, “why won’t my controller connect to my iPhone?” Instead, you’ll know what to do.

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