Why PlayStation’s Gamepad Works with Xiaomi TV – and How to Use It
Modern Xiaomi TVs on the Android TV platform or Google TV support the connection of game controllers — including the legendary DualShock 3, DualShock 4 and DualShock 5. This opens up opportunities for cloud gaming through Xbox Cloud Gaming, GeForce NOW or retro console emulators. However, not all users know that stable operation requires not only Bluetooth pairing, but also the right settings in the TV system.
The main problem lies in the lack of official support for DualShock in Xiaomi firmware until 2023 – many models (for example, Mi TV 4S or Mi TV Q1) require manual activation of compatibility mode. In this article, we will discuss all the current ways of connecting, including bypassing restrictions on older versions of software, as well as solving typical errors such as “device not detected” or input delays.
What DualShock models are compatible with Xiaomi TV
Theoretically, any PlayStation gamepad can be connected to Xiaomi TVs, but in practice there are nuances:
- 🎮 DualShock 4 (CUH-ZCT2) — Best option for most Xiaomi models. Supported out of the box on Android TVs TV 9.0+ (Like Mi. TV Q2 Xiaomi TV A2). Older versions of the software will require an adapter.
- 🕹️ DualShock 5 – only works on Android TVs TV 11+ (for example, Xiaomi TV 65" OLED). Earlier firmware may not be recognized due to Bluetooth 5.0 protocol.
- 🎯 DualShock 3 is an outdated controller that is not directly supported. USB-adapter (e.g, 8BitDo Wireless Adapter 2) or root access to the TV.
It is important to consider the firmware version of the TV. For example, on Mi TV 4A with Android 8.1, even DualShock 4 may not be determined without additional manipulation. You can check the version of the software in the Settings menu → About TV → Android TV version.
Method 1: Connecting DualShock over Bluetooth (the easiest method)
If your Xiaomi TV runs on Android TV 9.0 or later, try the standard pairing:
- Enable the gamepad in pairing mode: For DualShock 4: press the PS + Share buttons for 3 seconds until the LED flashes. For DualShock 5: press PS + Create (formerly known as Share).
Settings → Devices → Bluetooth
"Add device"
Wireless Controller
0000
After successful connection, the gamepad should be defined as a game controller. You can check this in the Settings menu → Devices → Accessories - there should appear the item "Game controller".
Charge the gamepad to 50%+
Update the TV to the latest version
Remove old paired devices from the Bluetooth list
Restart the TV before connecting-->
⚠️ Note: On Xiaomi TVs with firmware older than 2021, DualShock 5 can connect as an “audio device” instead of a game controller, in which case you will need to reset your Bluetooth settings or use the use of the device. USB-adapter.
Method 2: Connecting through USB-cable (for older models)
If Bluetooth is not working or the TV can’t see the gamepad, try connecting over the wire.This method is suitable for all DualShock models, but requires an original cable (or a certified USB-Type-C for DS5).
Instructions:
- Connect the gamepad to a USB-A or USB-C port on your TV (depending on the model).
- A notification will appear on the screen "Connected". USB-device".
- Go to Settings → Devices → Accessories and select “Configure controller”.
- If the TV requests a firmware update, agree (this will improve compatibility).
The advantage of this method is minimal input delays (important for shooters or fighting games), the disadvantage is the limited length of the cable and the risk of damage to the port with frequent connections.
What if the TV doesn’t respond to USB connection?
Method 3: Use of adapters for incompatible models
If your Xiaomi TV is older than 2019 (e.g. Mi) TV 4A or Mi TV 4C), It probably doesn’t support DualShock either on Bluetooth or on the Internet. USB. In this case, a Bluetooth adapter with protocol support will help. HID (Human Interface Device).
The best adapter options:
| Adapter model | Supported gamepads | Price (2026) | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8BitDo Wireless Adapter 2 | DS3, DS4, DS5, Switch Pro | ~2500 ₽ | Supports X-Input mode (for Xbox emulators) |
| Mayflash Magic-NS | DS4, DS5, Joy-Con | ~3000 ₽ | Low latency but requires firmware updates |
| Brook Wingman SD | DS3, DS4, arcade sticks | ~4000 ₽ | Professional solution for eSports games |
How to connect via adapter:
- Connect the adapter to the USB port on your TV.
- Put the adapter in pairing mode (usually with a button on the body).
- Activate the pairing mode on the gamepad (as in method 1).
- Wait for synchronization – the indicator on the adapter should be green.
⚠️ Attention: On Xiaomi TVs with Android firmware TV 8.0 and below DualShock. 4/5 It can be defined as a "keyboard" instead of a game controller, in which case only firmware through the computer will help. ADB or install custom software (for example, LineageOS for TV).
Additional settings for cloud gaming
If you connect DualShock to gaming via Xbox Cloud Gaming or GeForce NOW, you will need additional settings:
- Install the service app from the Google Play Store on your TV.
- In the application settings, select Controller: Generic Gamepad (not Xbox Controller, even if you use an adapter).
- For GeForce NOW, in the game menu, select "Use keyboard/gamepad" and confirm pairing.
- If the buttons are not assigned correctly, use the Gamepad Tester app from the Play Market to check for the mapping.
Emulators (such as RetroArch or PPSSPP) may require manual button binding. In RetroArch, this is done via the Settings → Input → Bind All menu.
💡
For minimal delays in cloud gaming, use a wired Internet connection (LAN) and turn off background apps on your TV via Settings → Apps → Launched.