How to connect iPhone to Xbox Controller while playing video games

Any iPhone model that has iOS 13 or above supports Xbox controllers. Know the simple and easy tricks here.

Connect your Xbox Controller to your iPhone with ease. (Xbox)

Apple's iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch devices that support iOS 13 and above can be easily connected to Microsoft's Xbox controllers. This means any new Xbox gamepad can be used as an iPhone controller to play video games on iOS devices. There's no hacking, special cables, or third-party hardware required to connect the Xbox controller. Connecting an Xbox gaming controller to an iPhone, iPod touch, or iPad is pretty simple and won't take more than a few minutes to complete. Before you start, just ensure that you have Bluetooth enabled on your iPhone and the latest version of iOS installed. Here's how to connect an Xbox controller to an iPhone using the in-built settings.

Wireless controllers supporting iPhone

Xbox Wireless Controller with Bluetooth (Model 1708)

Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2

Xbox Adaptive Controller

Xbox Wireless Controller Series S and Series X

How to connect iPhone to Xbox Controller

Time	Tools	Supplies
20 Minutes	Smartphone Laptop	Updated browser Internet

Step 1:

Firstly, you’ll have to pair your Xbox controller to your iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Apple TV, or Mac. For this, press and hold the Xbox button to turn on your controller and put it into pairing mode. 

Step 2:

Now, open your iPhone’s Settings app and head to the Bluetooth tab. Make sure your device’s Bluetooth is turned on otherwise you won’t be able to connect.

Step 3:

Now, you’ll see the name of your Xbox wireless controller under the “Other Devices” section at the bottom of the screen. 

Step 4:

Tap on the controller’s name in the Bluetooth settings and it will be connected. Once done, the controller’s Xbox button will stop flashing. Whoa! Your Xbox controller is connected to an iOS device and you’re all set to play the games. Do ensure that paired Xbox controllers must be prompted in the settings or else some of the games might not respond to the inputs. Check the game’s settings and ensure that the controller support is enabled.