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Connecting a PS3 controller to an Android device without an OTG cable can be a convenient way to enhance your gaming experience. Whether you’re playing games on your smartphone or using an emulator, using a PS3 controller can provide better control and gameplay experience. In this blog post, we will explore various methods to connect a PS3 controller to an Android device without using an OTG cable.
Why You Need to Connect PS3 Controller to Android without OTG Cable:
Connecting a PS3 controller to your Android device without an OTG cable offers several advantages. Here are a few reasons why you might want to do this:
- Enhanced gaming experience: Using a PS3 controller can provide better control and precision compared to touchscreen controls on your Android device.
- Compatibility: PS3 controllers are widely supported by most Android devices, making it a convenient choice for gamers.
- Cost-effective solution: Since you won’t need to purchase an OTG cable, connecting a PS3 controller without one can save you money.
- Easy setup: The methods we will discuss in this blog post offer straightforward setups, allowing you to connect your PS3 controller quickly.
Now that we understand the benefits, let’s explore the different methods to connect a PS3 controller to an Android device without using an OTG cable.
Video Tutorial:
Part 1. Method using Sixaxis Controller App:
The first method we will discuss involves using the Sixaxis Controller app. This app allows you to connect your PS3 controller wirelessly to your Android device. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Begin by downloading and installing the Sixaxis Controller app from the Google Play Store.
Step 2: Once the app is installed, launch it, and make sure your PS3 controller is connected to your Android device via Bluetooth.
Step 3: Open the Sixaxis Controller app and tap on the "Pair Controller" option. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the pairing process.
Step 4: After pairing, you will need to assign buttons to their respective functions. This can be done by going to the "Change Input Method" option in the app.
Step 5: Once the buttons are properly assigned, you can start using your PS3 controller to play games on your Android device without the need for an OTG cable.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Wireless connection. | 1. Requires rooting your Android device. |
| 2. Supports multiple controllers. | 2. Compatibility issues with certain devices. |
| 3. Customizable control mapping. | 3. Paid app with no free version available. |
Part 2. Method using Bluetooth Auto Connect App:
The second method we will discuss involves using the Bluetooth Auto Connect app. This app helps to establish a stable Bluetooth connection between your Android device and the PS3 controller. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Start by downloading and installing the Bluetooth Auto Connect app from the Google Play Store.
Step 2: Once the app is installed, open it, and ensure that Bluetooth is enabled on your Android device.
Step 3: Put your PS3 controller into pairing mode by pressing and holding the PS button and the Share button simultaneously.
Step 4: On your Android device, tap on the "Add New Device" option in the Bluetooth settings and select your PS3 controller from the list of available devices.
Step 5: After the connection is established, open the Bluetooth Auto Connect app and tap on the paired PS3 controller to configure it.
Step 6: In the app settings, enable the "Connect After Pairing" option to ensure that your PS3 controller connects automatically whenever it is paired with your Android device.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. No rooting required. | 1. Limited compatibility with certain Android devices. |
| 2. Easy and straightforward setup. | 2. Requires Bluetooth to be always enabled on your Android device. |
| 3. Supports automatic connection. | 3. May experience occasional connection issues. |
Part 3. Method using USB/BT Joystick Center App:
The third method we will explore involves using the USB/BT Joystick Center app. This app allows you to connect your PS3 controller to your Android device using a USB cable. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Begin by downloading and installing the USB/BT Joystick Center app from the Google Play Store.
Step 2: Once the app is installed, connect your PS3 controller to your Android device using a USB cable. Make sure the USB debugging option is enabled in your Android device’s developer settings.
Step 3: Launch the USB/BT Joystick Center app and grant it the necessary permissions.
Step 4: In the app settings, enable the "Enable Joystick" option and select "PS3 Controller" as the joystick type.
Step 5: After configuring the settings, disconnect the USB cable from your Android device.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. No rooting required. | 1. May experience occasional latency with the USB connection. |
| 2. Supports simultaneous connections of multiple controllers. | 2. Limited compatibility with certain Android devices. |
| 3. Allows customization of button mappings. | 3. The app is no longer actively maintained. |
Part 4. Method using Bluetooth ime App:
The fourth and final method we will discuss involves using the Bluetooth ime app. This app allows you to connect your PS3 controller to your Android device through a Bluetooth connection. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Start by downloading and installing the Bluetooth ime app from the Google Play Store.
Step 2: Once the app is installed, enable the Bluetooth option on your Android device and put your PS3 controller into pairing mode.
Step 3: On your Android device, go to the Bluetooth settings and search for available devices. Select your PS3 controller from the list.
Step 4: After the connection is established, open the Bluetooth ime app and select your PS3 controller from the list of available input methods.
Step 5: Once the Bluetooth ime app is enabled, you can start using your PS3 controller to play games on your Android device.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. No rooting required. | 1. Limited compatibility with certain Android devices. |
| 2. Provides seamless integration with the Android system. | 2. Requires manual setup and configuration. |
| 3. Supports multiple controllers. | 3. May experience occasional connection issues. |
What to Do If You Can’t Connect PS3 Controller to Android without OTG Cable:
If you encounter issues or are unable to connect your PS3 controller to your Android device without an OTG cable, here are three alternative solutions to consider:
- 1. Use a different controller: If you’re unable to connect your PS3 controller to your Android device, consider using a different controller that is known to be compatible. Xbox controllers, for example, are often compatible with Android devices.
- 2. Invest in an OTG cable: If connecting a PS3 controller without an OTG cable proves to be challenging, purchasing an OTG cable can provide a reliable and straightforward solution.
- 3. Explore alternative controller options: There are numerous gamepad controllers available in the market that are specifically designed for Android devices. Research and consider investing in one of these controllers for seamless compatibility and performance.
Bonus Tips:
Here are three bonus tips for connecting a PS3 controller to an Android device without an OTG cable:
- 1. Keep your controller charged: Ensure that your PS3 controller is adequately charged before attempting to connect it to your Android device. A low battery level can cause connectivity issues.
- 2. Check for firmware updates: Keeping your PS3 controller’s firmware up to date can help resolve compatibility issues and improve performance when connecting it to your Android device.
- 3. Restart your Android device: If you’re having trouble connecting your PS3 controller, try restarting your Android device. Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve connectivity issues.
The Bottom Line:
Connecting a PS3 controller to an Android device without an OTG cable can offer a more immersive gaming experience. In this blog post, we explored various methods to connect a PS3 controller to an Android device without using an OTG cable. We discussed the steps and pros and cons of each method. Additionally, we provided alternative solutions and bonus tips to help you overcome any challenges you may encounter during the process. Enjoy your gaming sessions with the enhanced control and precision provided by a PS3 controller on your Android device!
5 FAQs about Connecting PS3 Controller to Android without OTG Cable:
Q1: Can I connect multiple PS3 controllers to my Android device using these methods?
A1: Yes, all the methods discussed in this blog post support connecting multiple PS3 controllers to your Android device.
Q2: Do I need to root my Android device to connect a PS3 controller without an OTG cable?
A2: No, three out of the four methods discussed in this blog post do not require rooting your Android device.
Q3: Are these methods compatible with all Android devices?
A3: While these methods work with many Android devices, compatibility can vary. It’s recommended to check the compatibility of your specific device with these methods before proceeding.
Q4: Are there any free alternatives to the paid apps mentioned in the methods?
A4: Unfortunately, most of the reliable apps for connecting a PS3 controller to an Android device without an OTG cable are paid apps with limited or no free versions available.
Q5: Can I use these methods to connect a PS3 controller to other devices like smartphones, tablets, or smart TVs?
A5: Yes, these methods should work for connecting a PS3 controller to other devices like smartphones, tablets, or smart TVs that run on an Android operating system.