iOS Update Adds PS5 and Xbox Controller Support

The iOS 14.5 update offering support for PS5 and Xbox Series X/S controllers is among a variety of features listed in Apple’s press release. Others include extra Siri options, additional privacy controls, new emojis, and the ability to unlock iPhones with Apple Watches. 

Update iOS 14.5! 📱

Unlock (Face ID) with Apple Watch
Find My network
Siri new voice
Recalibration Battery Health (iPhone 11 series)
Support PS5 and Xbox gaming controller
217 new Emoji

Settings – General – Software Update. Go! 👏🏼 pic.twitter.com/nPgyJ4OIXQ

— Bhaguz Hernawan (@bhaguz_403) April 26, 2021

Pairing your Xbox or PS5 controller is quite simple. On your Xbox pad, merely hold down the pair button. Then, it will be visible on your iPhone/iPad in the Bluetooth section of your Settings. The method in connecting with your DualSense is in well the same sense – simply hold down the controller’s Share and PlayStation buttons. Do this until you see the Touchbar light flashing, and it too will appear in Settings > Bluetooth. 

The timing for this Xbox/PS5 controller support on iOS couldn’t be better. Just last week, Xbox Cloud Gaming began its beta on PC and iOS devices, making this added controller integration an excellent test for the service. On the PlayStation side of things, this compatibility with iOS devices and the DualSense is important to note for streaming games. This is because if any players use Sony’s Remote Play app, they’re allowed to stream PS5 and PS4 titles directly to their devices. The PS4’s DualShock 4 was already supported in this way. However, iOS 14.5 allowing the use of the current-gen controller is a remarkable improvement. Anyone pining to make most of the newest PlayStation controller’s better ergonomics will now be able to do so with ease.