Did you know that you can use the Xbox controller with a PC, Mac, smartphone and more? Microsoft controllers work wirelessly with a variety of additional devices – no cables required.
Here’s how to pair your Xbox controller with more than just an Xbox.
How to pair your controller with an Xbox
To pair a new controller with your Xbox Series X or S, or an older Xbox One console (including One S and One X), place two AA batteries or a rechargeable battery in the controller. Microsoft provides a set of disposable batteries in the box, but you can grab a play and charge the kit for about $ 20.
Press the power button on the front to turn on the Xbox console. Locate and press the pairing button on your console; on the Xbox Series X and S, it’s the little round button next to the front USB ports, as shown below.
On an Xbox One X or S, the pairing button is on the front of the console, next to the USB port on the right, as shown below.
On an original Xbox One, you’ll find the pairing button on the left of the console, next to the optical disc drive.
Now, press and hold the pairing button along the top edge of your controller, just above the battery compartment. You do not need to connect the controller first. Press and hold the pair button until the Xbox logo on the controller starts to flash quickly.
When the Xbox logo stops flashing and remains solid, the controller has been paired. If you encounter any problems, make sure that your console was in pairing mode.
You should now be able to control the Xbox interface with your new controller.
Pair your controller with a PC, Mac and more
You can also pair your controller with other devices via a standard Bluetooth connection. The process is similar to pairing with an Xbox, but you will probably have to adapt a few steps depending on the device.
In general, however, to pair your controller with another device, press and hold the pairing button on the top edge near the battery compartment. You will know that your controller is in pairing mode when the Xbox logo flashes quickly.
You now have 20 seconds to pair your controller with the device you want to use. Open the Bluetooth pairing interface on the device and select the controller. It should pair immediately if it is compatible.
You will need to do this if you want to play Xbox games remotely on your smartphone. Note that the Xbox Series X and S controller is currently not compatible with the iPhone or iPad natively, so they will refuse to pair.
Microsoft has promised that a future update will add support for Apple devices, but you will need to connect your controller to an Xbox to apply the update.
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Xbox One and Series X and S controllers only
You should now be able to pair your Xbox One or Xbox Series X and S controllers with any compatible console, computer or smartphone.
If you have an older Xbox 360 wireless controller, you’ll need Microsoft’s hard-to-find wireless receiver to pair your controller with a PC. Xbox 360 wired controllers are plug and play via USB.
Thinking about buying an Xbox Series X or S? Check everything you need to know about the next generation Xbox before you buy.