How to Connect a PS5 Controller to iPad + Troubleshooting Tips

Quick guide to connect a PS5 DualSense wireless controller to an iPhone or iPad

Co-authored by Naseem Speach and Rain Kengly

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

• Connecting a PS5 Controller
|
• Troubleshooting
|
• Video

|Show more |Show less

Do you want to play an app or game on your iPad with a controller? If you have PlayStation 5 DualSense Wireless Controller or DualSense Edge Wireless Controller, you can easily connect it to your iPad via Bluetooth. Here's how to connect a PS5 controller to an iPad, iPad Pro, Mini, or Air.

Quick Steps

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap Bluetooth and toggle it on.
3. Press and hold the PS and Create/Share button on your controller.
4. Tap the controller name on your iPad.

Steps

Section 1 of 2:

Connecting a PS5 Controller

1. 
   1
   Open the Settings app. This is the grey cog icon on your iPad.

   • iPad currently supports PlayStation DualShock 4 Wireless Controller, PlayStation 5 DualSense Wireless Controller, and PlayStation 5 DualSense Edge Wireless Controller.
   • Make sure your controller is charged and completely turned off.
2. 
   2
   Tap Bluetooth. This is near the top of the screen. If Bluetooth isn't already toggled on, tap it so the switch turns green.
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3. 
   3
   Press and hold PS and Create buttons at the same time. The Create button will be Share on some controllers.

   • The light bar will begin to flash, and the controller will be in pairing mode.
4. 
   4
   On your iPad, tap your controller name. If this is the first time you're pairing your controller, it will be listed underneath Other Devices.

   • The controller will connect, and the light bar may change colors. You should see Connected next to your controller name.
   • If the controller is paired to your iPad but not on, press the PS button.
   • To disconnect your controller, turn off Bluetooth.
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Section 2 of 2:

Troubleshooting

1. 
   1
   Make sure your controller is turned off. If you can't pair it with your iPad, it may be actively connected to your PlayStation. Use your controller to turn off your PlayStation console; it should turn off with it.
2. 
   2
   Let your controller charge. Your controller may have low battery. If it isn't connecting, let it fully charge for about 2 to 4 hours before using it.
3. 
   3
   Update your iPad. If you're running an older version of iOS, this may cause issues with Bluetooth connectivity. Download and install the latest software update, and then try again.
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