Key Highlights:
- DualSense controllers will soon support multi-device pairing via a PS5 system update.
- Players can assign up to four devices using action button shortcuts.
- Feature rolls out to beta users first, with a wider launch planned later.
Sony is set to enhance the DualSense controller’s usability with a new system update for the PlayStation 5, enabling seamless switching across multiple devices.
Starting 24 July, selected beta participants will be able to test this feature before it becomes widely available.
The update allows each DualSense or DualSense Edge controller to remember up to four paired devices at once. Instead of manually re-pairing the controller every time they switch platforms, players can now hold the PS button along with one of the four action buttons – X, Circle, Triangle, or Square to connect directly to a saved device.
Here’s how the setup works. Each combination of the PS button and an action button is tied to a specific device. For instance, pressing the PS button + Circle might connect the controller to a Windows PC, while PS + Triangle could be used for a smartphone or PS5. A corresponding indicator light will confirm the selected slot.
This not only makes switching platforms quicker but also simplifies the overall pairing process for users juggling between gaming systems, mobile devices, and PCs.
As detailed in the latest PlayStation blog, the process begins by manually pairing the controller with each target device, assigning one of the four action buttons during setup. Once stored, switching is just a matter of holding the chosen button combo for around three seconds.
Each configuration is confirmed by a unique blink pattern on the controller’s light bar and indicator LEDs.
Importantly, one of these four slots will always be used by the primary PlayStation system, either a PS5 or PS5 Pro. That leaves three open slots for other platforms, including Windows, macOS, iPhone, Android, or any other supported device.
Sony says this feature is designed to improve flexibility for players using their DualSense controller across platforms, in line with its vision of a more unified gaming experience.
Whether using Remote Play, jumping between console and PC, or testing out mobile titles with a controller, this update removes a common source of friction. This quality-of-life improvement comes alongside broader updates aimed at enhancing power efficiency on the PS5 system.
Though not available yet, a future patch will introduce a new Power Saver mode for supported games.
The multi-device pairing update is currently limited to invited beta testers in specific regions. As with past firmware rollouts, some features in testing may change before the full release, or not make it into the final update at all.
That said, if the trial phase goes well, and most likely will, a global launch is expected in the coming months.
For now, those included in the preview phase will receive email invites with download instructions.