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The Daily Insight

How do I connect my Dualshock to my PS3?

Author

James Craig

Updated on March 24, 2026

Here are the steps:
  1. Plug in DS4 controller via USB.
  2. Go to Accessory Settings and Manage Bluetooth Devices.
  3. Scan for Bluetooth Device.
  4. Unplug DS4, press Share and PS Buttons.
  5. Once device is found, plug DS4 back in and select Wireless Controller.
  6. Congratulations! You now have a rumble-free DS4 working with your PS3!

Herein, how do I get my PS3 to recognize my controller?

Turn on your PS3. Look for a small hole on the back on the controller near the L2 shoulder button. Use an unfolded paper clip to push down the tiny reset button inside the hole. Press the PS button on the controller to re-pair it with the PS3.

Secondly, why won't my controller connect to my PS3? If you still can't get your controller to sync with the PS3, you may need to reset it. To do so: Turn over the controller and locate the Reset button. You can find it along the top of the backside, near the L2 button.

Also question is, how do I pair a PS3 controller?

How to Sync a Controller to a Playstation 3 Console

  1. Turn on your PlayStation 3.
  2. Connect a mini USB cable to your controller.
  3. Connect the other end of the cable to your PS3.
  4. Push the PlayStation button in the middle of the controller to turn it on.
  5. Wait for the lights on the controller to stop flashing.

Why wont my DualShock 4 connect to my PS3?

Before you start, you need to ensure the system software of your PS3 has the version 4.6 or higher installed, or PS4 controller cannot be connected to PS3. To check the system software version, you can go to Settings > System Settings > System Software. The current version of Sony released is 4.82.

Related Question Answers

Can I use my PS3 without a controller?

Can you play ps3 without Wireless controller? - Quora. Yes! The PS3 supports using a wire to directly connect the official controllers, and makes the connection via USB when doing so. 3rd Party controllers MUST use a USB port, and can not connect wirelessly the same way as the official controllers.

Why does my PlayStation 3 controller keep disconnecting?

If the controller keeps disconnecting (with idle power save set to off and without getting the battery charge warning, it might be defective or you're getting interference from other electronic devices. If you bought it new, you might still have warranty on it. Maybe try to get the controller replaced or serviced.

How do you change controller settings on PS3?

You can adjust controller and display settings during gameplay. Press the PS button on the wireless controller during gameplay, and then select [Controller Settings] or [Other Settings] from the screen that is displayed.

Do PS4 controllers work on PS3?

PlayStation 4 controllers will work with a PlayStation 3 console, and when you use a wired connection, there is no setup involved. You can also pair a PS4 controller to a PS3 for a wireless connection, though the process of connecting the two devices is more involved.

How do I connect my PS3 controller to my phone via Bluetooth?

The first method
  1. Install and run the «Sixaxis Controller» app on your phone.
  2. Connect the Dualshock 3 to Android via the OTG cable.
  3. In the app, choose «Pair Controller».
  4. In the window, which displays the address, press «Pair».
  5. Next, press «Start» to start searching and to connect the manipulator.

Does DualShock 3 have Bluetooth?

Using a PS3 Controller With Your Android Phone

While PS3 controllers do have Bluetooth functionality, they don't seamlessly connect to other hardware like newer controllers. Both the original Sixaxis and DualShock 3 versions of the PS3 controller are specifically meant to connect to either the PS3 or the PSP Go.

Can I connect my PS3 controller to my phone?

Yes, Sixaxis Controller lets you use your wireless PS3 controllers with your Android phone or tablet, making your new Galaxy Tab or Xoom an emulation paradise.

Does PS3 controller work with iPhone?

If you've ever wanted to connect your PS3 controller to your iPad or iPhone, you'd know that it wasn't possible. However now after a new update to a common Cydia tweak, you can connect your PS3 controller and use it to play games.

How do I connect PS4 controller to PS3?

How to connect a PS4 controller to your PS3 for wireless use
  1. Connect the controller and console with the USB cable and power both on.
  2. Open the Settings menu, then go to "Accessory Settings."
  3. Click on "Manage Bluetooth.
  4. Select "Register New Device" by pressing "X" on the controller.

Are PS3 controllers wireless?

As we have mentioned above that the PS3 controller is both a wireless and a wired controller. So, you can connect your PlayStation 3 controller to your PS3 console without a USB cable.

How do I fix my bluetooth on my PS3?

Restart the console by pressing the Power Button again.
  1. Go to the Settings column and select Accessory Settings.
  2. Select Manage Bluetooth Devices.
  3. Highlight the device you would like to remove and press the Triangle button for the Options menu.
  4. Select Delete from the Options menu.
  5. Select Yes to confirm device deletion.

How do you master reset a PS3?

First method:
  1. Begin by switching off your PlayStation 3 by pressing and holding the Power key for about ten seconds.
  2. Wait until your device is fully switched off and the power indicator flashes solid red.
  3. Next, press and hold the Power key for about seven seconds, do so until you hear two short beeps.

How do you charge a PlayStation 3 wireless controller?

These days, a lot of portable products can just be plugged into any standard USB hub, USB charger, or a PC, and they'll start juicing up. The PS3 controller is much more finicky. Sure, it charges from the PS3 via that console's USB port. But plug the controller into any other USB source, and it's more of a 50/50 shot.

How do I sync my wireless PS3 controller without the USB?

How to Connect PS3 Controller without USB Cable?
  1. Turn on your PlayStation 3 console.
  2. Then turn on the PS3 controller by holding the PS or PlayStation button on the controller.
  3. In doing so, the 4 LED indicator light will start to blink.