Today’s smartphones are powerful enough that you can really consider them a fully-functional computer that fits in your pocket. And just like computers, your phone can also double as a gaming system. And while most games support touch controls, some games work better if you have a controller, and it’s easy to pair one with your Android phone.

Most Android smartphones, including the Samsung Galaxy S24 series and Google Pixel 8 series, can easily connect to Xbox, PlayStation, and Bluetooth controllers. There are also mobile gaming controllers that connect directly to your phone via USB-C, such as the Backbone One.

To pair a DualShock 4 controller, first put the controller into pairing mode by holding the Share button (the button to the left of the touchpad) for three seconds. You should see a light bar on the top of the controller start to flash. Next, go to your Android phone’s Settings, choose Connected Devices and select Pair New Device. You should then see a list of available devices. Find the DualShock 4 Wireless Controller in the list and tap its name to connect. Once paired, it will appear as Connected under the Other Devices section of your Bluetooth settings.

If you have a DualSense or DualSense Edge controller, press and hold the Create button (the button on the left side of the touchpad, with the lines pointing outwards) for three seconds until the controller light bar starts flashing. Then, on your Android phone, go to Settings, then Connected Devices and select Pair New Device. Wait for the name DualSense Wireless Controller to appear, then tap on it to pair it.