How to Use Your Phone as a PS4 Controller (Even Without Another Controller!)
You can absolutely use your phone as a PS4 controller, even if you don’t have a physical controller available! The solution lies in PS Remote Play, a free application that streams your PS4 screen to your mobile device and allows you to control the console using an on-screen controller. This is a lifesaver when your controller is lost, broken, or you simply prefer the convenience of your phone.
Getting Started with PS Remote Play
Downloading and Installing the App
The first step is to download and install the PS Remote Play app on your phone. It’s available on both the Google Play Store for Android devices and the App Store for iOS devices. Search for “PS Remote Play” and install the official app published by Sony Interactive Entertainment.
Configuring Your PS4 for Remote Play
Before you can control your PS4 with your phone, you need to enable Remote Play on the console itself. Here’s how:
- Turn on your PS4 (using the power button on the console itself).
- Go to Settings from the PS4 home screen.
- Navigate to Remote Play Connection Settings.
- Check the box that says Enable Remote Play.
For optimal performance, it’s also recommended to adjust the video quality settings:
- Go to Settings > Video Output Settings.
- Adjust the Resolution and Frame Rate to match your network capabilities. Lower settings can improve performance on slower connections.
Linking Your PS4 to the PS Remote Play App
Now it’s time to connect your phone to your PS4.
- Open the PS Remote Play app on your phone.
- Sign in with your PlayStation Network (PSN) account. This should be the same account you use on your PS4.
- The app will search for your PS4. Make sure your PS4 is powered on and connected to the same network as your phone.
- If the app doesn’t automatically find your PS4, you can manually register it by going to Settings > Remote Play Connection Settings > Add Device on your PS4. The PS4 will display a code that you can enter into the app.
Using the On-Screen Controller
Once connected, your PS4 screen will appear on your phone. You’ll see an on-screen controller overlay. You can now use this virtual controller to navigate the PS4 interface, launch games, and play just like you would with a physical controller.
Tips for a Better Remote Play Experience
- Strong Wi-Fi Connection: A stable and fast Wi-Fi connection is crucial for a smooth Remote Play experience. A 5GHz Wi-Fi network is generally recommended.
- Close Unnecessary Apps: Close any other apps running in the background on your phone to free up resources and improve performance.
- Consider a Controller Mount: While the on-screen controller is functional, some users find it less comfortable than a physical controller. You can purchase a phone mount that attaches your phone to a DualShock 4 controller for a more traditional gaming experience.
- Experiment with Settings: Play around with the Remote Play settings in the app to optimize the video quality and performance for your specific device and network.
- Troubleshooting: If you’re experiencing connection issues, try restarting your PS4, your phone, and your router. Also, ensure that your PS4 firmware and the PS Remote Play app are up to date.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use PS Remote Play over mobile data?
Yes, you can use PS Remote Play over mobile data, but it’s generally not recommended. Mobile data connections are often less stable and have higher latency than Wi-Fi, which can lead to a poor gaming experience. It will also consume a significant amount of data. Use with caution and monitor your data usage.
2. Is PS Remote Play free?
Yes, PS Remote Play is a completely free app offered by Sony. There are no hidden costs or subscriptions required.
3. Can I use PS Remote Play to play any PS4 game?
Yes, you can play almost any PS4 game with PS Remote Play. However, some games that require specific peripherals (like the PlayStation Camera or PlayStation VR) may not be fully compatible.
4. Does PS Remote Play work with my PS5?
Yes! The PS Remote Play app can also connect to your PS5 console. The setup process is very similar to connecting to a PS4.
5. How much data does PS Remote Play use?
The amount of data PS Remote Play uses depends on your video quality settings. Higher resolutions and frame rates will consume more data. Expect to use anywhere from a few hundred megabytes to several gigabytes per hour, especially with mobile data.
6. Can I use a Bluetooth controller with PS Remote Play on my phone?
Yes, you can connect a DualShock 4 wireless controller to your phone via Bluetooth and use it with PS Remote Play. This provides a much better gaming experience than using the on-screen controller.
7. Why is my PS Remote Play connection laggy?
Laggy connections are usually caused by a weak or unstable internet connection. Try moving closer to your router, closing other apps that are using your network, or upgrading your internet service.
8. Can I use PS Remote Play on multiple devices at the same time?
No, you can only connect to your PS4 or PS5 from one device at a time with PS Remote Play.
9. Do I need PlayStation Plus to use PS Remote Play?
No, PlayStation Plus is not required to use PS Remote Play.
10. Can I use PS Remote Play to turn on my PS4 remotely?
Yes, but you need to enable the “Stay Connected to Internet” setting on your PS4. Go to Settings > Power Save Settings > Set Functions Available in Rest Mode and check the box.
11. What if my PS Remote Play app can’t find my PS4?
Make sure your PS4 and your phone are on the same network, and that Remote Play is enabled on your PS4. Also, ensure that the PSN account you are using to log in to the Remote Play App is the same account associated with the PS4. If problems persist, try restarting both devices.
12. Can I use PS Remote Play on a PC or Mac?
Yes, Sony also offers a PS Remote Play app for Windows PCs and Macs. The setup process is similar to the mobile app.
13. Is there a way to improve the on-screen controller in PS Remote Play?
Unfortunately, there isn’t much customization available for the on-screen controller. Connecting a physical controller is the best way to improve the control experience.
14. I forgot my PSN password, how can I reset it to use PS Remote Play?
You can reset your PSN password on the PlayStation website.
15. Where can I learn more about games and learning?
You can explore the work of the Games Learning Society and their research into how games can be used for education and other positive outcomes at GamesLearningSociety.org.