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How to Connect the Xbox Series X or S Controller to Android

Go mobile with a controller

By Jennifer Allen Jennifer Allen Writer Swansea University, Staffordshire University Jennifer Allen has been writing about technology since 2010. Her work has appeared in Mashable, TechRadar, and many more publications. lifewire's editorial guidelines Updated on March 2, 2021 Reviewed by Ryan Perian Reviewed by Ryan Perian Western Governors University Ryan Perian is a certified IT specialist who holds numerous IT certifications and has 12+ years' experience working in the IT industry support and management positions. lifewire's editorial guidelines Tweet Share Email Tweet Share Email Consoles & PCs Xbox Buyer's Guide

What to Know:

Hold down the small button at the top of the controller until the Xbox button begins to flash to turn on Bluetooth pairing. On your Android phone, tap Settings > Bluetooth, and select your controller under Available Devices. You can stream games to the Xbox app from your games console and play. Not all Android games are compatible with controllers. This article teaches you how to connect an Xbox Series X or S controller to your Android smartphone.

How to Connect the Xbox Series X or S Controller to Android

Android smartphones have plenty of games at their disposal so it's smart to be able to connect your Xbox Series X or S controller to your Android phone. Here's how to connect Xbox controller to Android with a focus on pairing up your Xbox Series X or S controller to your phone.

Note:

These instructions also work with all Bluetooth-compatible Xbox One controllers as well as the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2. However, not all Android phone menus are identical and some steps and menu options vary slightly depending on phone. Turn your Xbox Series X or S controller on by holding down the Xbox logo in the middle of the controller. Hold down the small button at the top of the controller until the Xbox button begins to flash. On your Android phone, tap Settings. Tap Bluetooth. Your Xbox controller should now appear as one of the devices to pair under Available Devices. Tap the Xbox controller name and wait a few moments for the pairing to take effect. The controller is now paired with your Android smartphone.

How to Disconnect Your Xbox Series X or S Controller From Your Android Smartphone

Want to disconnect your Xbox Series X or S controller once you've finished playing? Here's what to do on your Android.

Note:

You can also hold down the glowing Xbox button on the controller for a few seconds to switch it off. Tap Settings. Tap Bluetooth. Tap the i next to the named controller. Tap Disconnect.

Tip:

If you'd prefer to unpair it, requiring you to pair it again if you want to reuse it, tap unpair.

What Can I Do With the Connected Controller

Not sure what to do next now you've connected your Xbox Series X or S controller to your Android phone? Here's a quick look at what you can and can't do. It's possible to stream Xbox games from your console to your Android phone. Via the Xbox app, you can play games directly from your games console without having to sit in front of your TV. It only works via your local network but it can be useful if someone is taking up the TV and you still want to play your favorite game. You can stream games remotely via the Cloud Gaming app. Got an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate membership? You can stream games using the Cloud Gaming beta app without even needing to download games to your console first. It's a great way of trying out a game without having to wait hours for it to download. You can play any Android game that supports controllers. Many Android games support controllers so look out for them and play them with your shiny Xbox Series X or S controller rather than rely on touchscreen options. You can't navigate your Android phone's home screen with the controller. You can't use your Xbox controller like a mouse and switch between apps or negotiate menus with it. It's solely for playing compatible games with and nothing else. How to Connect an Xbox Series X or S Controller to an iPhone Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day Subscribe Tell us why! Other Not enough details Hard to understand Submit More from Lifewire How to Add and Use an External Hard Drive with Xbox Series X or S How to Connect an Xbox to Google Home How to Use External Controllers on Steam Deck How to Connect an Xbox One Controller to Android How to Connect a PS5 Controller To Android How to Speed Up Xbox Series X or S Downloads Xbox Series S and X Backwards Compatibility How to Connect an Xbox Series X or S Controller to an iPhone How to Set Up Xbox Game Streaming for Your Phone How to Stream Xbox Series X or S to Your PC Can You Connect AirPods to Xbox Series X or S? How to Fix an Xbox Series X or S Controller That Won't Turn On How to Connect a Nintendo Switch Pro Controller to a PC How to Connect a PS3 Controller to a PC How to Live Stream on Twitch How to Use a PS5 Controller on Xbox Series X or S Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookies Settings Accept All Cookies