How to connect a PS5 controller to an iPad in minutes

⚡ Fast fix

• Quick check: Your iPad needs iPadOS 14.5 or newer—or this won’t work.
• Pairing mode: Hold PS + Create until the light flashes—no flash, no connection.
• Bluetooth route: Go to Settings > Bluetooth and tap your controller when it appears.
• No lag option: Plug in a USB-C cable for a faster, more stable connection.

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Your PlayStation®5 is your loyal companion at home, but you probably don't want to cart a heavy console around with you. And forget about hauling your TV to the park or the carpool lane. But that doesn't mean you're tied to your living room. You can connect a PS5 DualSense® wireless controller to your iPad® whenever you get the urge to battle supervillains or squeeze in a quick round of Call of Duty.

At Asurion, our experts can help you get the most out of your video game setup. If you're wondering how to connect a PS5 controller to an iPhone® or change the light colors on a PS5 controller, we've got answers. Here's our easy guide on how to connect a PS5 controller to an iPad.

Check your iPad and controller compatibility

Before you learn how to connect your PS5 controller to your iPad, make sure your devices will work together. If you track the new iPad features, you may already know that iPadOS controller support is a fairly new addition. You'll need iPadOS 14.5 or later to connect gaming accessories.

You'll also need the right model for a successful PS5 controller and iPad pairing. For the most part, any iPad with iPadOS 14.5 or higher should be good to go. For example, you can connect a controller to the iPad Air (M3) and iPads in the fifth generation and above.

And don't forget to check compatibility with the games you want to play. A PS5 controller works with many Apple Arcade titles and other third-party games with controller support.

Pair your PS5 controller through Bluetooth settings

Before you jump into the iPad gaming controller setup, you need to disconnect the controller from your PS5 first. Otherwise, it may not pair with your iPad correctly. Here's how:

1. Turn on your PS5 and open the Settings menu from the home screen.
2. Click Accessories > General > Bluetooth Accessories.
3. Choose your PS5 controller from the list of devices and click Forget Device.

After you've disconnected the console, it's time to pair the PS5 DualSense with Bluetooth. Follow these steps:

1. Press and hold the PS and Create button until the light flashes. This puts your PS5 controller into pairing mode, so your iPad can find it.
2. On your iPad, click Settings > Bluetooth and toggle it on if necessary.
3. Find your DualSense controller in the list of nearby Bluetooth devices and tap it.
4. If your controller doesn't work right away, press and release the PS button.

Do you want a faster mobile gaming controller setup? Use a USB-C cable instead. Just plug it into both devices, and you can start using your controller right away. This setup often has less lag than Bluetooth.

Fix pairing and connection problems

You've followed this setup guide to a T, but your PS5 controller isn't connecting to your iPad. Don't give up on your dreams of gaming in the office or during your train commute just yet. Try these iPad and controller troubleshooting tips:

• Restart your iPad's Bluetooth connection: Open Settings and tap Bluetooth, then toggle it off and on. This puts the device back in discovery mode, so you can find and use your PS5 controller on iPad.
• Restart your Apple device: Reset your iPad by turning it off and on again. Sometimes that's all it takes to fix small glitches and reconnect your Bluetooth controller with the iPad.
• Start from scratch by re-pairing the devices: If your controller won't work no matter which buttons you mash, make your iPad forget it:
  1. In the Settings app, go to Bluetooth
  2. Tap the More Info button next to the PS5 controller's name
  3. Tap Forget this Device. From there, you can go back through the pairing process.

Okay, so you've finally got your controller paired with your iPad. Excellent, have fun gaming! At some point, you'll probably want to switch back to the console. Here's how:

1. Open the Settings app on your iPad.
2. Tap Bluetooth > More Info > Forget this Device to disconnect the controller.
3. Use a USB-C cable to plug your controller into the PS5 and press the PS button.

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FAQ

Can you connect a PS5 controller to an iPad?

Yes—you can connect a PS5 DualSense® controller to any iPad running iPadOS 14.5 or later using Bluetooth or a USB-C cable.

Why won’t my PS5 controller connect to my iPad?

Most issues come down to pairing mode or Bluetooth conflicts. Make sure the controller light is flashing and that it’s disconnected from your PS5 first.

Is it better to use Bluetooth or a cable?

Bluetooth is more convenient, but a USB-C cable usually gives you a faster, more stable connection with less lag.

What games support a PS5 controller on iPad?

Many Apple Arcade and third-party games support controllers, but not all apps do—check the game’s settings or App Store listing for compatibility.