PS4 Remote Play iOS How to Use DualShock 4 Controller PlayStation 4
Image: SIE

Can you use a DualShock 4 PlayStation 4 controller with iPhone and iPad? Do you have to play using the on-screen touch controls with Remote Play? Firmware update 6.50 introduced the ability to use the PS4's Remote Play feature with iOS devices, such as iPhone and iPad. For a time, you weren't able to use a PS4 controller natively, and had to use a somewhat convoluted workaround. However, with the release of iOS 13 and iPadOS, you can now use your DualShock 4 on your Apple devices with no hassle.

So, if you don't fancy using the Remote Play app's touch control solution, read on to find out how to connect your PS4 controller to your iPhone or iPad.

How to use a DualShock 4 PS4 controller with Remote Play on iOS and iPadOS

Let's go through the steps to allow the use of a PS4 controller with the Remote Play App.

Install iOS 13 or iPadOS on your Apple device

The first thing you should do is make sure you have the latest system software installed on your iPhone or iPad. If you're unsure whether you have this, go to Settings > General > Software Update to search for updates. If your device is up to date, you can get started. If not, you'll need to download and install iOS 13 on your iPhone or iPadOS on your iPad.

Download 'PS4 Remote Play' App from the App Store to your Apple device

Once your device's system software is up to date, the next step is to ensure you have downloaded the Remote Play App from the App Store. Make sure you have the official one — here's a link if you're struggling to find it. Get it installed on your device so you can use the Remote Play feature.

Turn on Bluetooth on your Apple device

Another pretty obvious step, this one. You'll need to make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your iPhone or iPad in order for it to find your PS4 controller. You can do this in one of two ways:

  • Swipe up from the bottom of the screen to open Control Center and tap the Bluetooth icon to enable it (the symbol will turn blue when Bluetooth is on)
  • Go to Settings > Bluetooth and toggle it on with the switch

Sync your DualShock 4 controller with your Apple device

With Bluetooth enabled on your iPhone or iPad, it's time to pair it with your PS4 controller. Here's what you need to do:

  • Press and hold both the PS button and the Share button for about five seconds, or until the controller's light bar starts blinking
  • A DualShock 4 symbol should appear at the bottom of your device's screen. Tap it to enable the use of your PS4 controller with your iPhone or iPad

Start 'PS4 Remote Play' App on your Apple device

Fire up the Remote Play App on your device. Once it's up and running, tap 'Start' and then 'Confirm and Continue'.

Log into your PSN account on your Apple device

You'll then be prompted to log into your PSN account. Fill in your email address and password, then enter your verification code if you have two-step authentication enabled. Once you've successfully logged in, your iPhone or iPad will search for your PS4 console via WiFi.

Enjoy using your DualShock 4 PS4 controller on your Apple device

As soon as your iPhone or iPad has established a connection with your PS4, Remote Play will begin. Assuming you've followed all the above steps correctly, you should now be able to use your DualShock 4 controller to play PS4 games on your phone or tablet via Remote Play. Hooray!


Will you be making use of this new feature in PS4 firmware update 6.50? Do you like the touch controls in the Remote Play App for iOS and iPadOS, or will you be using a DualShock 4 controller instead? Take back control in the comments below.