You can connect a compatible game controller to your iPhone through Bluetooth® or a wired connection. You can customize the buttons, add a second controller to get help from a friend, and use your controller to navigate the Apple Games app on iPhone.
With Buddy Controller, two controllers work together to control the same player character. A wired controller may need an adapter, depending on your iPhone model. You can also customize controls for a specific game in the Apple Games app.
Pair a Bluetooth game controller
- Follow the instructions that came with the controller to put it in discovery mode.
- Start the Settings app on your iPhone.
- Tap Bluetooth and turn on Bluetooth. Tap the name of the device.
Connect a wired game controller
Along with wireless ones, you can also connect a compatible wired game controller to your iPhone. Depending on the controller and your iPhone model, you might need an adapter, sold separately, so follow the instructions that came with your controller.
Customize the game controller buttons
Once a compatible game controller is paired or connected, you can customize the buttons for supported games in the Apple Games app.
- Start the Settings app on your iPhone.
- Tap General and then tap Game Controller.
- Select the controller you want to customize. Then do any of the following
- Customize default controls: Tap Default.
- Customize controls for a specific game: Tap Add Game and select the game. Tap Default for the selected game.
- Select the actions and gestures you want to use with your controller.
Add a second game controller and get help from a friend
Need a friend to help you navigate through a challenging part of a game? With Buddy Controller, iPhone lets you both control the same player character with two controllers. It’s compatible with any game that supports game controllers.
- Connect two compatible game controllers to iPhone through Bluetooth or a wired connection.
- Start the Settings app on your iPhone.
- Tap General and then tap Game Controller.
- Tap Buddy Controller.
- Choose the primary controller and choose the secondary controller.
