This guide shows you how to use a PS3 controller wirelessly on an Android phone with the Sixaxis Controller app. The app requires your Android device to be rooted, and you’ll need to purchase it for $2.49 from the Google Play Store. You’ll also connect the controller via a USB cable initially for pairing over Bluetooth.
Before you start:
- Your Android device must be rooted.
- You need an original Sony PS3 controller with sufficient battery charge.
- Purchase a USB 2.0 to micro-USB cable (or USB-C if your phone uses USB-C).
- Enable Bluetooth on your Android.
- Unplug your PS3 from power to avoid interference.
How to pair a PS3 controller with Android using Sixaxis
Follow these structured steps across preparation, compatibility check, and pairing to connect your controller wirelessly.
Preparing to connect
- Root your Android device if not already done, as the app requires root access to pair the controller.
- Acquire a USB 2.0 to micro-USB adapter cable (or USB-C version for compatible ports) to connect the PS3 controller cable.
- Verify you have an original Sony PS3 controller; third-party versions do not work reliably.
- Unplug your PS3 console from power to prevent the controller from reconnecting to it accidentally.
- Enable Bluetooth on your Android by swiping down the notification shade, long-pressing the Bluetooth icon, and toggling it on.
Checking for compatibility
- Download the free Sixaxis Compatibility Checker app from the Google Play Store: search for Sixaxis Compatibility Checker, then tap INSTALL and ACCEPT.
- Open the Sixaxis Compatibility Checker app from the Play Store or app drawer.
- Tap Start, the power icon in the upper section of the screen, to begin the check.
- Wait for the confirmation prompt; if compatible, note the Local Bluetooth Address displayed at the bottom—your phone must be rooted for this to work accurately.
Connecting the controller
- Purchase and download the Sixaxis Controller app for $2.49: open Google Play Store, search for Sixaxis Controller, tap the price, and complete payment.
- Open the Sixaxis Controller app.
- Plug the small end of your adapter cable into your Android’s charging port.
- Connect the PS3 controller’s USB cable to the adapter; the controller’s lights should blink, confirming the physical link.
- Tap Start, the power icon in the upper-left, and wait for “Successfully configured Bluetooth” and “Listening for controllers…” to appear.
- Tap Pair Controller to open the pop-up with the controller’s Bluetooth address.
- Compare the controller’s address to your phone’s noted address; if they differ, tap the field and type your phone’s Bluetooth address.
- Tap PAIR in the bottom-right, then tap OK when prompted.
- Wait for “Master address updated” to confirm connection progress.
- Unplug the controller from the cable.
- Press the controller’s On button; “Client 1 connected” confirms successful pairing for wireless use.
What to do next
Once paired, use your PS3 controller to navigate Android menus and play supported games from the Play Store. Many emulators and action games detect it automatically for precise control.
If issues arise, re-run the compatibility checker or restart Bluetooth pairing. Consider mapping buttons in apps like Mantis Gamepad Pro for custom layouts, and explore other controllers like Xbox for non-root options.
