If you’re a gaming enthusiast who owns Xbox and Apple devices, you might have thought: “Why can’t I just plug the Xbox controller into my iPhone, iPad, or Mac like any other gaming controller?” Xbox controllers could already pair via Bluetooth but they didn’t fully integrate with Apple devices for wired use—until now.
Now with the release of iOS 18, macOS Sequoia, and iPadOS 18, Apple has made it easier to hook your Xbox controller into its ecosystem with a cable.
Wired Connection Made Easy
Previously, Xbox controllers didn’t use the Microsoft protocol and weren’t natively compatible with Apple’s products. However, Apple has, with these new software updates, fixed this, so with no extra steps or complex set up, users will be able to plug in their Xbox controllers via USB-C without difficulty. It works now, and all you have to do is plug in your controller and you’re in; no tutorials and no other software needed.
Don’t worry for users still using iPhones with a Lightning port! Still, it’ll work perfectly fine with a USB-C to Lightning adapter.
Why is Wired Connection the Choice?
For most gamers, they want a wireless Bluetooth connection but there are some benefits to a wired option. Let’s face it, if your controller or device has issues with Bluetooth connectivity or battery life, a wired connection brings stability to this link with zero input lag. This also means anyone with an iPhone or Xbox controller that may have injured the wireless functionality can continue to play uninterrupted.
The connection process is immediate on iPhone and iPad, just plug it in and you’re ready to start playing. On Mac, however, you’ll be prompted with a message: Should I connect the Microsoft Controller to this Mac? It’s as simple as accepting and you’re good to go. Unlike iOS security reasons, this permission request is unique to macOS.
Continued Bluetooth Support
While there is a new wired option it also still supports the wireless experience with your Xbox controller over Bluetooth. With more flexibility, especially if you don’t want to deal with Bluetooth pairing issues or just want a direct connection for eSports type gaming, the wired option is just different.
PSU: How Does It Compare to PlayStation Controllers?
That’s why if you’re a mobile gamer, PlayStation controllers have long been the go to controllers; Apple supports it for both wired and wireless connections. Now with the Xbox controller offering the same seamless experience, the ability to switch between the controller of your choice, rather than having to worry about connectivity issues.
Final Thoughts: Wired or Wireless?
If you like using a controller or were happy using pure touch controls, Apple has finally made it easier than ever to play your games on its devices with an Xbox controller. If you already have an Xbox controller, this update is an additional layer of convenience for you in the choice of having wireless freedom or the tried and reliable wired connection.
I do (being blunt), so are you a fan of using controllers on Apple devices? So have you tried connecting your Xbox controller via cable yet? What do you think? Does it do more well than Bluetooth?