Xiaomi’s multimedia center is no longer just a movie experience. Android TV and PatchWall owners often want to expand the device’s functionality by turning the screen into a full-fledged gaming station. However, the full-time remote is not suitable for dynamic projects that require accuracy and tactile returns, making connecting an external controller a necessity.
Sony’s PlayStation 4 DualShock 4 controller is one of the most popular gaming devices in the world, and using it with a Xiaomi TV is a real challenge. Although the Mi TV system does not natively support all of the features of the gamepad without third-party software, modern methods allow you to bypass the limitations. In this article, we will discuss all the ways of pairing, including wireless connection and cable connection.
The setup process can vary depending on the version of the operating system and the model of your TV.Some users have difficulty finding a device or connection stability, but following the instructions correctly minimizes risks.The key to a successful connection is having a Bluetooth module version 4.0 and higher in your Xiaomi TV. Let's take a look at all the nuances of preparing and implementing this process.
Compatibility check and equipment preparation
Before you start actively pairing devices, you need to make sure that your equipment is technically ready to work. Xiaomi TVs running Android TV have built-in Bluetooth module, which will act as the main channel of communication. However, not all models support the HID (Human Interface Device) profile to the fullest extent, which may require the use of additional adapters.
You'll need a DualShock 4 controller, preferably at least 50% charged, so that it doesn't turn off during the setup process. Also make sure the remote is in good working order, as navigating the Android TV menu without it will be extremely difficult. If you plan to use a wired connection, you'll need a quality Micro-USB or USB-C cable with data transfer, not just charging.
⚠️ Attention: Using cheap "charging-only" cables will prevent the TV from seeing the gamepad when wired.
Checking the Android version on your device is also important, as older versions (below 7.0) may have problems with Bluetooth device drivers. Go to your system settings and find the About Device section to check the current firmware version. If system updates are available, it’s best to install them before you start experimenting with peripherals.
☑️ Preparation for connection
Wireless connection via Bluetooth
The most convenient way to use the controller is a wireless connection that eliminates unnecessary wires and allows you to sit at a comfortable distance from the screen. First, you need to put the DualShock 4 gamepad in pairing mode. On the controller off, press both the PS button (round button in the center) and the Share button (the small button to the left of the touchpad).
Hold these two buttons for 3-5 seconds until the light bar on the back of the gamepad flashes white quickly.This means that the device is visible for search. Now take the remote from the Xiaomi TV and go to the main menu. Navigation is done through the Settings section, where you need to select Remote and Accessories or Bluetooth.
The Wireless Controller should appear on the list of available devices. Click on it to start pairing. The system can request confirmation or automatically complete the process. Once successfully connected, the light panel on the gamepad will change color (usually blue or red), which signals successful synchronization.
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If the Xiaomi TV doesn’t see the gamepad in search mode, try restarting the Bluetooth module by turning it off and on in the settings, or perform a full restart of the TV.
It's worth noting that standard support may not be able to run all of the functions, like vibration or gyroscope, but for basic menu controls and simple games, it's enough, but for a full experience, emulation is often required. Some TV models may require input. PIN-The standard value of the code is usually 0000.
Connection through USB-cable
If the wireless connection causes input lag or is unstable, you can use a wired method. This option is also useful if the Bluetooth module on the TV is occupied by other devices, such as headphones or a sound bar. You will need a cable with Micro-USB or USB-C connectors at one end and a standard USB-A at the other.
Connect the cable to a USB port on the back or side of a Xiaomi TV. Then connect the second end to the DualShock 4 gamepad. Unlike a PC that requires initial setup via cable, here the Android TV system must automatically recognize the device as input. The light bar will light up in a constant color.
The wired connection guarantees minimal signal latency, which is critical for dynamic action and fighting games. However, the length of the cable limits your movements, so this method is more suitable for static play. USB The TV is capable of producing enough voltage (usually 5V), although the controller consumes a little power.
Why is the gamepad blinking orange?
Use of emulators and third-party applications
The regular Android TV features often limit the use of the gamepad only in specific applications. To make DualShock 4 work in all games, including console emulators (Dendy, Sega, PlayStation 1), you will need to install special software. On the Google Play Store on your TV, find and install the Button Mapper or Gamepad Keymapper app.
These programs allow you to reassign the controller buttons, creating profiles for different games. Once you install Button Mapper, launch the application and provide the necessary permissions through the Accessibility menu, a key step that will not work without reassignment.
In the interface, select your controller from the list of connected devices, and you can now assign actions to each button, analog stick, and trigger, for example, you can configure screen touch emulation for games that don't support gamepads initially.
For advanced users, the RetroArch emulator is available, which has built-in excellent support for DualShock 4. In the emulator driver settings, select udev or android as input driver to ensure that all buttons work natively without complex reconfiguration.
Configuring Retro Consoles Emulators
One of the main reasons for connecting the gamepad to the TV is to run old console emulators. Popular RetroArch emulator or individual emulators like DuckStation (for PS1) require the right configuration. In the emulator settings menu, find the Input or Controllers section.
You need to select a port (both port) 1_) You can select the Wireless Controller from the list, then you can go through the "Auto-configure" procedure, or you can manually assign buttons, following the prompts on the screen. It's important to set the analog sticks correctly so that the character doesn't move by itself.
To emulate PlayStation 1 and higher, setting the trigger sensitivity is critical. In some cases, analog triggers can only work as digital buttons (press/not pressed).
| Emulator | Support for DS4 | I need a setup. | Vibration. |
|---|---|---|---|
| RetroArch | Complete. | Minimum | Yes. |
| Dolphin (GameCube) | Complete. | Medium | Yes. |
| PPSSPP (PSP) | Partial | Tall. | No. |
| TV's state games | Basic | No. | No. |
If you use a PSP PPSSPP emulator, note that the original console did not have analog sticks in its usual form, so mapping buttons may not be obvious. In such cases, it is convenient to use the feature of displaying buttons on the screen, which can be hidden when the gamepad is connected.
Resolving and eliminating delays
One of the most common problems is the controller’s disengagement or disabling, which is often due to interference of Wi-Fi signals, since Bluetooth and Wi-Fi operate in the same 2.4 GHz frequency band. If you’re using Wi-Fi, try switching your router to 5 GHz or moving your router away from your TV.
Input lag can be caused not only by Bluetooth, but also by the TV's image settings. Go to the image settings and select Game Mode, which disables the extra post-processing of the picture, significantly reducing the delay between pressing the button and acting on the screen.
⚠️ Warning: Modes for Movies, Sports or Bright add significant signal delay. Always turn on Game mode when using the controller.
It’s also worth checking background processes. If the TV is overloaded with running apps, it can affect the processing of input signals. Close unused apps through the menu of running tasks. In extreme cases, resetting Bluetooth settings in the Settings menu → Apps → Show system → Bluetooth → Reset can help.
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Enabling the Game mode in the Xiaomi TV image settings reduces input latency to a minimum, making the gameplay comfortable.