How to Turn On Bluetooth on Your PS4 Controller: A Comprehensive Guide

The question of how to turn on Bluetooth on a PS4 controller might seem simple, but it often leads to more questions. The PS4’s DualShock 4 controller is a marvel of technology, offering both wired and wireless connections for gaming. To connect it wirelessly using Bluetooth, you’ll need to put it into pairing mode. Here’s the direct and simple answer: To activate Bluetooth on your PS4 controller and make it discoverable by other devices, you need to press and hold the SHARE button, then press and hold the PS Button simultaneously until the light bar starts flashing rapidly. This indicates that the controller is now in pairing mode and ready to connect. Let’s delve deeper into the nuances of this process, explore related FAQs, and provide a complete understanding of how to get the most out of your PS4 controller’s Bluetooth capabilities.

Understanding Bluetooth Pairing Mode

The core of connecting your PS4 controller wirelessly lies in initiating its Bluetooth pairing mode. This mode makes the controller discoverable to other devices, like your phone, PC, or another PS4 console. While the basic process is simple, there can be some variations and issues that might arise.

Steps to Activate Pairing Mode

1. Ensure Your Controller is Off: Before starting, your PS4 controller should be powered off. If it’s connected to the console, you can power it down by holding the PS Button and selecting “Turn Off Device.”
2. Locate the Share and PS Buttons: These are two critical buttons needed for pairing mode. The SHARE button is located on the left side of the touchpad, and the PS button is the circular button in the center.
3. Press and Hold: Simultaneously press and hold the SHARE button and the PS Button.
4. Observe the Light Bar: Watch the light bar on the front of the controller. If you’re holding the buttons correctly, the light bar will start flashing rapidly. This confirms the controller is in pairing mode.
5. Device Connection: Once the light bar is flashing, the controller is discoverable by other Bluetooth-enabled devices. You can now go to the Bluetooth settings on your target device (phone, PC, etc.) and search for available devices. The PS4 controller should appear as “Wireless Controller” or something similar. Select it to connect.

Common Scenarios and Troubleshooting

Connecting to Multiple Devices

The PS4 controller can only connect to one console or device at a time. This means that if you pair it with your phone, you’ll need to pair it with your PS4 again when you want to play games on the console. You can also use it on other systems including a PS5, PC, or Android devices, however you would still have to put the controller into pairing mode as described above each time.

Initial Connection to PS4

When connecting a new PS4 controller to your console for the first time, it’s best to use a USB cable to connect it. This initial pairing ensures that the console recognizes the controller, after which you can then use Bluetooth.

1. Connect via USB: Plug a USB cable into your controller, and the other end into the PS4.
2. Press the PS Button: Turn on your PS4 and press the PS button on the controller.
3. Automatic Pairing: Your controller will automatically pair with the console thanks to the USB connection and you can then disconnect the USB cable and use the controller wirelessly.

Controller Doesn’t Connect via Bluetooth

If your controller isn’t connecting via Bluetooth, try these solutions:

1. Ensure Pairing Mode: Double-check that the controller is in pairing mode by following the steps mentioned above and ensuring the light bar is flashing rapidly.
2. Check Device Bluetooth: Make sure the Bluetooth on your connecting device is turned on and that it’s actively searching for new devices.
3. USB Cable Test: If possible, test the controller with a USB cable to see if it connects that way. If not, you might have a controller issue.
4. Reset the Controller: The controller may be experiencing a glitch that is causing it not to connect. To reset it, use a paperclip to push the reset button on the back of the controller. Then try to connect it again.
5. Update the Controller: Outdated controller firmware can sometimes cause connection issues. Make sure your controller has the latest updates. You can update your controller on the PS4 under Devices in Settings.
6. Battery Issues: Make sure that the controller is charged as a low battery level may interfere with pairing.
7. Interference: Bluetooth signals can sometimes be affected by interference. Make sure that there are no obvious sources of interference between the controller and the target device (other electronics, large metal objects, etc.).

Disconnecting Bluetooth

To disconnect a controller or another Bluetooth device from your PS4:

1. Go to Settings from the home screen.
2. Select Devices.
3. Choose Turn Off Device.
4. Select the controller or device you want to disconnect.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify aspects related to the PS4 controller and Bluetooth:

1. Do I need to sync a new PS4 controller?

Yes, the first time you use a new controller with your PS4, you’ll need to pair it. Using the USB cable initially makes the process easier. For any other device such as a PC, you’ll have to put the controller into Bluetooth pairing mode and select the device from your Bluetooth list.

2. How do I connect a new PS4 controller without an old one?

You don’t need an old controller to connect a new one. Use a USB cable to connect it to your PS4. Once plugged in, the new controller should pair by pressing the PS button.

3. Why won’t my PS4 controller connect via Bluetooth?

Multiple factors can prevent Bluetooth connection. Try a different USB cable, reset the controller, update the firmware, or check the device’s Bluetooth settings. Also, make sure the controller is charged.

4. Can I connect my PS4 controller to my phone?

Yes, you can connect your PS4 controller to an Android device or iPhone via Bluetooth using the pairing mode method outlined earlier. The same method would apply to a PC as well.

5. How do I turn off Bluetooth on my PS4 controller?

You don’t directly turn off Bluetooth on the controller itself. Instead, disconnect the controller from the PS4 via Settings > Devices > Turn Off Device.

6. Why can’t I connect my controller to my phone?

Make sure your phone is discoverable in Bluetooth settings and that you have put the controller in pairing mode by holding the PS button and Share button until it flashes.

7. Is there Bluetooth in a PS4 controller?

Yes, PS4 controllers are equipped with Bluetooth functionality to enable wireless connections with other devices.

8. How do I put my PS4 controller into Bluetooth pairing mode?

Press and hold the SHARE button and then the PS button until the light bar on the controller flashes rapidly.

9. How to connect Bluetooth to PS4?

Go to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth Devices to search for and pair new Bluetooth devices, including controllers.

10. Why is my PS4 controller flashing blue?

A flashing blue light usually indicates that the controller is attempting to connect with the console. A solid blue light means it’s connected.

11. Why is my PS4 controller flashing white?

A flashing white light can indicate a battery issue, problems with pairing or other connectivity issues.

12. Do I have to sync a new PS4 controller?

Yes, a new PS4 controller needs to be synced the first time you use it with a PS4 system.

13. Why will my PS4 controller connect to my phone but not my PS4?

This could indicate a desync or a firmware problem. Try reconnecting with a USB cable, resetting the controller, and checking for firmware updates.

14. Can you control the PS4 with your phone?

Yes, with the PS Remote Play app, you can control your PS4 using your phone.

15. How do I reset my PS4 controller?

You can reset the controller by using a pin or paperclip to press the reset button located in a small hole on the back of the controller near the left shoulder button.

By understanding these key details and troubleshooting tips, you can confidently manage your PS4 controller’s Bluetooth connections. Enjoy your gaming experience, and feel free to refer back to this guide whenever needed!