Can an Xbox One Controller Connect to iPhone, Android, Mac, and Apple TV?

How to Connect an Xbox Controller to iPhone / iPad

1. Open Settings → Bluetooth and turn Bluetooth on.
2. Hold the Xbox button to power the controller, then hold the Pair button until it flashes.
3. Tap Xbox Wireless Controller under Other Devices.
4. Light turns solid = paired. Start gaming.

Disconnect: Control Center → long-press Bluetooth → tap Xbox Wireless Controller.

How to Connect an Xbox Controller to Android

1. On your phone, go to Settings → Bluetooth (or Connected devices) and turn it on.
2. Put the controller in pairing mode (hold the top Pair button until the Xbox light flashes).
3. Tap Pair new device → choose Xbox Wireless Controller.
4. Optional: Use a USB-C OTG cable for a wired connection.

How to Connect an Xbox Controller to Mac / MacBook

Bluetooth

1.  → System Settings → Bluetooth (On).
2. Put controller in pairing mode → select Xbox Wireless Controller.

USB (alternative)

Use a USB-C↔Micro-USB/USB-A cable. macOS recognizes it automatically—ideal for minimal latency.

Use an Xbox Controller with Apple TV

1. On Apple TV: Settings → Remotes and Devices → Bluetooth.
2. Put controller in pairing mode → select Xbox Wireless Controller.

Great for Apple Arcade. Many players consider Xbox pads among the best controllers for Apple TV for comfort and build.

Compatible Games (iOS, Android, macOS, tvOS)

Which Xbox Controllers Work?

Use an Xbox One Bluetooth model, Xbox Series X|S, or Elite Series 2. Non-Bluetooth Xbox One pads (early models) won’t pair wirelessly.

Troubleshooting & Tips

• Not showing in Bluetooth? Power off (hold Xbox button), then re-enter pairing mode.
• Switching devices? Unpair from the previous device first.
• Lag on Mac? Try USB cable or move away from 2.4GHz interference.
• Update firmware via an Xbox console or the Xbox Accessories app (Windows).

People also ask

Can you use an Xbox controller on a MacBook?

Yes—pair over Bluetooth or plug in via USB. Works with many Steam and Apple Arcade titles.

Does Xbox controller work with Apple TV?

Yes—pair in Settings → Remotes and Devices → Bluetooth, then play Apple Arcade and supported games.

How do I know if my Xbox One controller has Bluetooth?

If the plastic around the Xbox button is part of the front shell (not a separate glossy “island”), it’s the Bluetooth model.

FAQ

Can I connect an Xbox controller to an iPhone?

Yes—iOS 13+ supports Xbox controllers via Bluetooth. See steps above.

How do I connect an Xbox controller to a Mac?

Use Bluetooth in System Settings or plug in via USB for lowest latency.

Can I use an Xbox controller on Android?

Yes—pair in Bluetooth settings or use a USB-C OTG cable.

Which games support controllers?

Hundreds, including Fortnite, Roblox, Stardew Valley, Terraria, and many Apple Arcade titles.

What if my controller won’t pair?

Unpair from the previous device, re-enter pairing mode, or update firmware.