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How to Get Your Backbone Working on PS5: A Comprehensive Guide

So, you’ve got a Backbone One and a PS5, and you’re itching to play your favorite PlayStation games on the go. Excellent choice! The Backbone is a fantastic piece of kit, but getting it to work seamlessly with your PS5 requires a few steps. Here’s the direct answer, followed by a deeper dive into troubleshooting and common issues:

To get your Backbone to work on your PS5, you primarily use PS Remote Play. This involves ensuring your PS5 is set up for remote play, downloading the PS Remote Play app on your mobile device, connecting your phone to the Backbone controller, and then connecting to your PS5 through the app. Crucially, your PS5 needs to be powered on or in rest mode, and both your PS5 and your mobile device need a stable internet connection.

Setting up PS Remote Play

Preparing Your PS5

First and foremost, your PS5 needs to be ready for action. Follow these steps:

Power On & Update: Ensure your PS5 is powered on and connected to the internet. Check for any available system software updates and install them. This is crucial, as outdated software can cause compatibility issues.
Enable Remote Play: Navigate to Settings > Remote Play > Enable Remote Play. Make sure this setting is toggled on.
Link Device (Optional but Recommended): In the same Remote Play settings, you’ll find an option to “Link Device.” This generates a code that you can enter on your mobile device during the initial setup, making the connection process smoother. This is particularly helpful if you plan on using Remote Play regularly.
Power Saving Settings: In Settings > System > Power Saving > Features Available in Rest Mode, make sure that “Stay Connected to the Internet” and “Enable Turning on PS5 from Network” are both enabled. This allows you to wake up your PS5 remotely from rest mode.

Setting Up Your Mobile Device and Backbone

Now, let’s get your mobile device ready:

Download the PS Remote Play App: Head to the App Store (iOS) or the Google Play Store (Android) and download the official PS Remote Play app.
Install and Open the App: Once downloaded, install the app and open it.
Log In: Log in to the app using your PlayStation Network account credentials. This is the same account you use on your PS5.
Connect Your Backbone: Carefully plug your phone into the Backbone One. Make sure the connection is secure and that the Backbone is properly seated.
Pairing the Controller The PS Remote Play App should recognize the controller immediately. The Backbone One PlayStation Edition is designed to be uniquely recognized as a DualSense controller.
Select Your Console: The app will search for your PS5 on the network. If your PS5 is on and connected to the internet, it should appear in the list. Select your console. If you’ve previously linked your device, it should connect automatically. If not, you may need to enter the code generated in the “Link Device” section on your PS5.
Start Playing: Once connected, you’ll see your PS5 dashboard on your phone’s screen. You can now navigate the menus, launch games, and play using your Backbone controller.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you’re running into problems, don’t panic! Here are some common issues and their solutions:

Connection Issues: Ensure both your PS5 and your mobile device have a stable and strong internet connection. A wired connection for your PS5 is always preferable for optimal performance. WiFi can work too as long as the speed is there.
Backbone Not Recognized: Double-check that your phone is fully inserted into the Backbone. Try cleaning the charging port on your phone and the connector on the Backbone. Ensure your phone’s operating system and the Backbone app are up to date.
Lag or Stuttering: This is often caused by a poor internet connection. Try reducing the streaming quality in the PS Remote Play app settings (Settings > Video Quality for Remote Play). Close any other apps running on your phone that might be consuming bandwidth.
Controller Not Responding: Make sure the PS Remote Play app is in the foreground. Sometimes, switching to another app and then back can resolve the issue. Restarting both the PS Remote Play app and your PS5 can also help.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 15 frequently asked questions (FAQs) to provide additional valuable information for the readers:

Do I need a PS Plus subscription to use PS Remote Play with my Backbone? No, a PlayStation Plus subscription is not required to use PS Remote Play. However, if you want to play online multiplayer games through Remote Play, you will need a PS Plus subscription.
Can I use my Backbone to play PS5 games remotely from anywhere in the world? Yes, as long as you have a high-speed internet connection (at least 5 Mbps upload and download) on both your PS5 and your mobile device.
Is the Backbone One compatible with all Android phones? Most non-folding Android phones with Android 10.0 or later, USB-C, and USB OTG are compatible. However, it’s always a good idea to check the Backbone website for a list of officially supported devices.
Does the Backbone One need to be charged? No, the Backbone One does not have a battery. It draws minimal power from your phone to operate.
Why isn’t my PS5 showing up in the PS Remote Play app? Make sure your PS5 is powered on or in rest mode, connected to the internet, and that Remote Play is enabled in the system settings. Also, ensure that both your PS5 and your mobile device are on the same network.
Can I use a different controller with PS Remote Play instead of the Backbone? Yes, you can use other compatible Bluetooth controllers with PS Remote Play on your mobile device.
Does the Backbone One PlayStation Edition work with Xbox Game Pass? Yes, the Backbone One PlayStation Edition does work with Xbox Game Pass and other cloud gaming services that support controllers.
What is the Backbone+ subscription, and do I need it? The Backbone+ subscription is an optional service that provides access to additional features within the Backbone app, such as game streaming and exclusive content. You do not need a Backbone+ subscription to use the Backbone controller for PS Remote Play.
How do I update the firmware on my Backbone One? The Backbone One firmware is updated through the Backbone app. The app will notify you if a new firmware update is available.
Can I use the Backbone One with my PC or Mac? No, the Backbone One is designed primarily for mobile gaming and is not directly compatible with PCs or Macs. However, you can use it with PS Remote Play on those devices if you install the PS Remote Play app.
I’m experiencing lag when playing PS5 games remotely. What can I do to improve performance? Try reducing the video quality in the PS Remote Play app settings. Also, make sure that other devices on your network aren’t consuming too much bandwidth. Using a wired connection for your PS5 is also recommended.
Is there a specific case that works with the Backbone One and my phone? Backbone sells adapters to assist with phone cases. Ensure you have the appropriate adapter before playing.
How do I remap the buttons on my Backbone One? Button mapping is not supported through the PS Remote Play app.
Can I use headphones with the Backbone One? Yes, the Backbone One has a 3.5mm headphone jack that you can use to connect wired headphones.
Where can I find more information about gaming and its impact on learning? Check out the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org for research, resources, and insights on the intersection of games and education. The Games Learning Society is a great resource for learning about the broader context of gaming.

Final Thoughts

Getting your Backbone working with your PS5 opens up a world of gaming possibilities. By following these steps and troubleshooting tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your favorite PlayStation games on the go with ease. Remember to keep your software updated, maintain a stable internet connection, and explore the various settings in the PS Remote Play app to optimize your gaming experience. Happy gaming!

How do I get my Backbone to work on PS5?