How to Connect Nintendo Wireless Controllers to Your Phone: A Comprehensive Guide

Discover how to connect your Nintendo wireless controllers, such as the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller and Joy-Con controllers, to your smartphone. Learn the process and compatibility details with our step-by-step instructions.

Introduction to Nintendo Wireless Controllers

Nintendo offers a variety of wireless controllers for different gaming consoles, including the NES, SNES, N64, GameCube, Wii, and Wii U. The Nintendo Switch Pro Controller and Joy-Con controllers are the most versatile, compatible with the Nintendo Switch console and Xbox/PC via Bluetooth.

Connecting the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller

Connecting the Pro Controller to your phone is a straightforward process that involves placing the controller in pairing mode and using your phone's Bluetooth settings.

Put the Controller in Pairing Mode: Press and hold the Sync button on the top of the controller until the indicator lights start flashing. Open Bluetooth Settings on Your Phone: Go to Settings Bluetooth. Ensure that Bluetooth is turned on. Pair the Controller: Look for the controller in the list of available devices. It will likely appear as (Controller Name) * (Mac Address).

Connecting Joy-Con Controllers

For Joy-Con controllers, the process is slightly different and involves removing the Joy-Con from the Switch and placing it in a similar pairing mode.

Put the Joy-Con in Pairing Mode: Remove the Joy-Con from the Switch and press the Sync button on the side of the controller until it starts flashing. Open Bluetooth Settings on Your Phone: Go to Settings Bluetooth. Turn Bluetooth on if it is not already. Pair the Controller: Find the Joy-Con in the list of available devices and tap to pair.

Compatibility Notes

It's important to note that not all games on mobile devices support controller input, so always check if the games you want to play are compatible with controllers. The process may vary slightly depending on your phone's operating system, either Android or iOS.

Connecting Other Nintendo Controllers

Other Nintendo controllers from different eras, like the NES, SNES, N64, and GameCube, have limitations when it comes to connecting to a phone. They use IR (Infrared) or proprietary RF (Radio Frequency) connections, which are not compatible with smartphones.

The Wiimote, however, uses a different approach. Unlike earlier controllers, the Wiimote connects via Bluetooth. This makes it possible to pair the Wiimote with your phone via a simple scan and pairing process.

Do a Bluetooth Scan on Your Phone: Press the 1 2 buttons on the Wiimote until the LEDs at the bottom flash. The Wiimote will appear in the scan. Select and Pair the Wiimote: Select the Wiimote from the list and pair it.

Once paired, the Wiimote can be used for some specific applications, such as controlling certain games or apps designed for it, but it cannot control general phone functions or operate in the same way as a dedicated phone remote.

Conclusion

Though you can connect your Nintendo wireless controllers to your phone for various gaming and app experiences, compatibility and functionality may vary. Ensure you use the correct method and check the compatibility of your games or apps to get the best experience.