A PS4 DualShock 4 connects to a compatible iPad through Bluetooth or a direct USB cable. Pair it in iPadOS first, then supported games and PS Remote Play use the controller. Start with Bluetooth, then use USB or reset the saved pairing when the controller will not connect.
Pair the PS4 controller over Bluetooth
This fixes first-time Bluetooth pairing on iPadOS 13 or later.
Press and hold the PS button until the controller turns off. Then disconnect every USB cable from the controller. Press and hold PS and Share together until the light bar flashes.
Open Settings on the iPad, then tap Bluetooth. Turn on Bluetooth. Tap the controller name when it appears in the devices list. If the controller pairs without connecting, press and release PS once.
Connect with a USB cable
A wired connection applies when you want to skip Bluetooth. Apple supports direct USB connection for PlayStation DualShock 4 wireless controllers on compatible iPad models running iPadOS 13 or later.
Plug the controller directly into the iPad with a USB cable that supports data and charging. Use the USB-C or Lightning adapter that matches your iPad model and controller cable.
Lightning iPads require the appropriate adapter, sold separately. USB-C iPads use a compatible USB-C cable or adapter.
If USB does not pair and connect the controller, install the latest software updates for the controller and iPad, then try the cable again. If it still fails, use Bluetooth pairing.
Reconnect a controller already paired
Use the saved pairing before you remove the controller.
- 1.Press and release the PS button on the controller.
- 2.Open Settings on the iPad.
- 3.Tap Bluetooth.
- 4.Select the controller in the Bluetooth devices list.
- 5.Use the forget-and-pair steps below if it still will not connect.
Forget the controller and pair it again
Use this when the DualShock 4 appears in Bluetooth settings but does not connect reliably. Forgetting the device removes the saved pairing from the iPad.
Open Settings on the iPad and tap Bluetooth. Tap the Actions Available button or the More Info button next to the controller. Tap Forget This Device, then tap Forget Device to confirm.
Hold PS and Share until the light bar flashes. Return to Settings and Bluetooth, then tap the controller name again.
Set up PS Remote Play
Install PS Remote Play from the official App Store listing, and use an iPad running iPadOS 15 or later. Update your PS4 or PS5 to the latest system software, then connect the iPad through a fast, stable internet connection.
Pair the DualShock 4 through Settings and Bluetooth, then open PS Remote Play. Sign in to your account for PlayStation Network and connect to your PS4 or PS5 console. Allow local network access in iPadOS Settings when the prompt appears. Pairing happens in Settings and Bluetooth, not inside PS Remote Play.
Customize controller buttons
Button customization applies after the DualShock 4 is connected. iPadOS 16 or later supports controller customization, with options shown by the controller and game.
Open Settings, tap General, and tap Game Controller. Tap the controller name, then tap Default Controls.
Select the actions and gestures you want to use with the controller. Tap Add Game to customize one game, select the game, and tap Default for that game.
Check Bluetooth controls and device management
This fixes blocked pairing caused by Control Center Bluetooth settings or school and workplace management.
Open Control Center and check the Bluetooth Switch button. Tap Bluetooth Switch again when Bluetooth accessories were disconnected from Control Center.
Open Settings to fully turn Bluetooth off or on. Tap Bluetooth, then use the Bluetooth switch.
Open Settings on a school or work iPad, then tap General and VPN & Device Management. Contact the school or work administrator when device management controls Bluetooth changes or controller pairing.
Skip unsupported old tricks
Skip the DUALSHOCK 4 USB wireless adaptor for iPad; Sony describes that adaptor for Windows PC USB connection. Avoid jailbreak-based controller tweaks; Apple describes jailbreaking as unauthorized modification of iPadOS. Use Bluetooth pairing or direct USB connection with the controller on iPadOS 13 or later. Stay inside Settings, Bluetooth, and direct USB when you troubleshoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which iPadOS version do I need for a PS4 controller?
Use a compatible iPad running iPadOS 13 or later for DualShock 4 pairing. Controller customization starts with iPadOS 16 or later.
Do I pair the PS4 controller inside PS Remote Play?
No. Pair the controller through Settings > Bluetooth first. PS Remote Play uses the controller after iPadOS connects it.
Can I connect two controllers to one iPad?
Yes. On iPadOS 16 or later, connect two compatible controllers, then go to Settings > General > Game Controller > Buddy Controller and choose the primary and secondary controllers.
Does the DualShock 4 USB wireless adaptor work for iPad pairing?
No current vendor-supported iPad method uses that adaptor. Use Bluetooth pairing or a direct USB connection with the controller.