Connect Xbox and PS4 controllers to Apple TV, Mac, iPad and iPhone

For the gaming service "Apple Arcade“Apple has officially made it possible to control the corresponding games with controllers on the current Xbox or PlayStation. To couple to the Xbox controller or to the PS4 controller you need a control unit (see below) as well as an Apple TV, an iPad, an iPhone or a Mac. In the following I have also summarized the necessary instructions with which you can merge the devices and play wirelessly.

Connect the Xbox Wireless Controller to Apple Arcade

Apple has uploaded a tutorial video for pairing your Xbox controller and iPhone, iPad, and Apple TV. The individual steps that need to be taken if you want to play games at Apple Arcade with the gamepad are explained in English. You can find the video in English below; Here is a summary of the individual steps in German:

1. Open the device's Bluetooth settings (Settings -> (Remote control and devices ->) Bluetooth)
2. Bluetooth on the respective end device activate
3. Press the center Xbox button on the Xbox controller to turn it on
4. Press and hold the Connect button on the top for 3 seconds
5. If the Xbox button is flashing, the controller on the Apple device can be selected as a Bluetooth device

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NTIv2oFPvcg

Pair the PlayStation DualShock 4 controller with Apple Arcade

The whole thing also works with the PlayStation 4 DualShock controller. You will also find the video in English for this after the list of points in German. Below I have put together the source of supply for the gaming controllers shown as well as a little help for the purchase decision. But first, here are the step-by-step instructions:

1. Open the device's Bluetooth settings (Settings -> (Remote control and devices ->) Bluetooth)
2. Bluetooth on the respective end device activate
3. Switch on the controller if necessary
4. At the same time the central one PS- and the Share-Press the button until the light of the controller starts to flash
5. Select the PlayStation DualShock 4 in the list of Bluetooth devices on the end device and pair it

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0hZ-ibtTK5k

Buy a bluetooth gamepad for Apple devices and PC

The two Bluetooth game controls shown for the Microsoft Xbox and the Sony PlayStation can be found on Amazon, among others: Microsoft Xbox Wireless Controller / PlayStation 4 - DualShock 4 wireless controller. Depending on whether you use one of the game consoles or a Windows PC for gaming in addition to the Apple devices such as iPhone, iPad, Apple TV and Mac, sometimes the one or the other controller is more worthwhile. 

If you own a gaming PC, you can of course use the PS4 controller (for example via Steam or other clients); However, the coupling with the Xbox controller would be proprietary, as this and the Windows operating system come from Microsoft and the latter also contains an Xbox gaming service. The purchase also depends on getting used to previous gamepads and the ergonomics of the proposed ones.

Microsoft Xbox Wireless Controller, Black

• Experience the enhanced comfort and feel of the new Xbox Wireless Controller
• Plug into any compatible headset with the 3.5 mm stereo headset jack
• Get up to twice the wireless range than previous controllers

95,88 EUR

Buy it at Amazon Price includes VAT, plus shipping costs (updated: 19.04.2024 at 01: 22 clock)

PlayStation 4 - DualShock 4 Wireless Controller, Black

• A new, highly sensitive SIXAXIS sensor enables first-class motion control.
• The dual analog sticks have been improved and offer greater precision, better material on the surfaces ...
• The L2 / R2 buttons on top of the controller have been rounded down to make it easier and smoother to use.

59,99 EUR

Buy it at Amazon Price includes VAT, plus shipping costs (updated: 19.04.2024 at 01: 22 clock)

Johannes Domke

After graduating from high school, Johannes completed an apprenticeship as a business assistant specializing in foreign languages. But then he decided to research and write, which resulted in his independence. For several years he has been working for Sir Apfelot, among others. His articles include product introductions, news, manuals, video games, consoles, and more. He follows Apple keynotes live via stream.

The page contains affiliate links / images: Amazon.de