Game consoles are a thing of the past, and modern Smart TV Xiaomi is becoming a full-fledged entertainment hub, but what if you want to play emulators or cloud services with a convenient gamepad, rather than a remote? The PlayStation 3’s DualShock 3 is a great option thanks to its ergonomics and analog sticks, but its connection to Xiaomi TVs is often questionable. In this article, we will analyze all working methods of synchronization, nuances of compatibility with different TV models and typical errors that interfere with stable operation.
The main problem lies in the protocols of Bluetooth: gamepad PS3 It uses an outdated standard that not all smart TVs support out of the box, and Xiaomi often limits the functionality of peripherals for security reasons, but that doesn't mean that connectivity is impossible, you just have to choose the right one from the three available: We tested each method on the Mi TV series, either by wire, by air or through an adapter. TV 4S, Mi TV Q1 Redmi Smart TV, to give precise recommendations.
1. Gamepad compatibility PS3 Xiaomi TVs: What you need to know
Before you try to connect DualShock 3, check two key things: your TV’s Bluetooth version and the port availability. USB-A. Most Xiaomi models support Bluetooth 4.2 after 2019+, But that doesn't guarantee compatibility with the gamepad. PS3 It uses a proprietary Bluetooth protocol. HID authentication that many TVs simply don’t recognize.
Here is a short table of compatibility of popular models:
| Model TV set | Bluetooth | Support PS3 airborne | Support for USB |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mi TV 4S (2018-2020) | 4.0 | ❌ (adapter) | ✅ (software-updated) |
| Mi TV Q1/Q2 (2021-2023) | 5.0 | ⚠️ (partly, with manual pairing) | ✅ |
| Redmi Smart TV X (2020+) | 4.2 | ❌ | ✅ |
| Xiaomi TV A2 (2023) | 5.2 | ✅ (post-refresh) | ✅ |
If your model does not support Bluetooth connectivity, do not despair – there is always an option with the help of the Internet. USB-You can use a cable or a special adapter, which we'll talk about later, and also note that games through emulators (like RetroArch) may require additional button adjustments in the app itself.
⚠️ Attention: Gamepads PS3 Non-original batteries often have power problems when connecting to a TV. 5-10 Try replacing the battery or using an external USB-hub with power.
2. Method 1: Connecting DualShock 3 to USB (most reliable)
This is the only way that works on all Xiaomi TVs without exception. USB-A → Mini-USB (usually bundled with a gamepad) takes less than a minute to connect:
- Insert the Mini-USB into the gamepad and USB-A — port.
- Press the button. PS (PlayStation logo on the joystick.
- Wait until indicator 1 starts to burn constantly (this means that the device is recognized).
If nothing happens,
- 🔌 Check the cable – it should support data transfer, not just charging.
- 🔄 Reboot the TV with a connected gamepad.
- 📋 Update your TV to the latest version (path: Settings) → On TV. → Updating the system).
Once successfully connected, the gamepad will be defined as the Game Controller in the device settings. To check whether it works, open any game (such as Asphalt 9 from Google Play) or test section in Settings. → Devices → Gamepad.
Data-enabled cable (not charging)|
Gamepad charged at least 30 times%|
Port port USB TV's good|
Update on TV installed-->
Method 2: Wireless Bluetooth connection (for supported models)
If your Xiaomi TV is released after 2021, the chances of successful pairing through the air are higher, but the process is not as simple as with modern gamepads.
- Turn Bluetooth on TV: Settings → Network and devices → Bluetooth.
- Press and hold the button. PS + Share on the gamepad until the indicators start flashing quickly.
- From the list of available devices on TV, select the Wireless Controller (can be displayed without a name).
- On request. PIN-Enter 0000 code.
If the device is not located:
- 🔍 Make sure the gamepad is in pairing mode (indicators flash alternately).
- 📱 Try first to connect the joystick to the smartphone – if it does not work there, the problem is in the gamepad itself.
- 🔄 Reboot the Bluetooth TV module: turn it off / turn it on in the settings.
On Mi TVs. TV Q1/Q2 You may need to manually add the device through the developer menu:
- Activate Developer Mode: Settings → On TV. → Software version (click 7 times on the build number).
- Go back to the Settings → Additional → Developer settings.
- Turn on Bluetooth debugging.
- Repeat the pairing.
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If the gamepad connects, but the buttons are not working correctly, reset its settings: insert the clip into the Reset hole on the back and hold for 5 seconds.
Method 3: Using a Bluetooth adapter (for older TV models)
If you're Xiaomi. TV It doesn’t support DualShock 3. USB, No Bluetooth, the output will be an external adapter:
- 🎮 8BitDo Wireless Adapter 2 — It's universal, it works with PS3/PS4, Switch and PC. Connects to the port. USB-A television.
- 🔌 Mayflash Magic-NS – supports gamepads PS3 Nintendo Switch, but requires firmware for some TV models.
- 📶 Brook Super Converter – professional solution for emulators, but more expensive than analogues.
Instructions for 8BitDo Wireless Adapter 2:
- Connect the adapter to USB-television-port.
- Press the Pair button on the adapter (the indicator will start flashing).
- Activate the pairing mode on the gamepad (PS + Share).
- Wait for the indicator to burn on the adapter.
These adapters cost between 1,500 and 3,000 rubles, but they solve the compatibility problem once and for all, and some models (such as Mayflash) allow you to connect up to 4 gamepads at a time.
USB |.
Bluetooth |
Through the adapter|
I haven't tried it yet.-->
5. Customize the gamepad in games and emulators on Xiaomi TV
Even after a successful connection, DualShock 3 may not work in games, which is because many apps from Google Play are optimized for XInput (Xbox standard), rather than DirectInput (PS3). Decisions:
- 🎮 In RetroArch: Go to Settings → Entering → Assign buttons and reassign keys manually.
- 📱 V PPSSPP (emulator PSP): Enable the option to Use an external controller in Settings → Management.
- 🖥️ Xbox Cloud Gaming or GeForce NOW: Use XInput Emulation Mode via Adapter 8BitDo.
To test the gamepad without games:
- Install the Gamepad Tester app from Google Play.
- Open it and press any buttons on the joystick – the corresponding indicators should light up on the screen.
- If any buttons do not respond, check them in the Settings menu. → Devices → Gamepad on TV.
On Xiaomi TVs with Google TV (for example, Xiaomi TV A2) There's a built-in gamepad test:
- Go to Settings. → Devices → Gamepad.
- Select the connected DualShock 3.
- Press the device test.
How to fix the input delay (input lag)?
Typical problems and their solutions
Even with the right connection, there can be problems.
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| The gamepad is not defined by USB | Lack of food at the port | Use USB-hub with external power |
| The buttons are not working properly. | Disparity of layout | Reassign buttons in the game settings |
| Permanent Bluetooth shutdowns | Interference from other devices | Reconnect the gamepad away from the router/microwave |
| The indicator on the gamepad does not burn | Battery discharged | Charge the joystick from the charger (not from TV) |
If the gamepad connects, but after a few minutes it turns off, check:
- 🔋 Battery level (Indicator 1 should be green).
- 📶 Interference at 2.4 GHz (switch the router to 5 GHz).
- 🔄 Power saving settings TV (turn off) USB-devices in settings → Power supply).
⚠️ Note: On Xiaomi TVs with firmware below MIUI TV 3.0 may not have support HID-Bluetooth devices. Update the software or use it. USB-connection.
7. Alternative solutions: emulation and cloud services
If you can’t connect DualShock 3, consider the alternatives:
- 🎮 Xbox gamepad One/Series X – Connects to Xiaomi TV It is easy to use with standard XInput protocol.
- 📱 Smartphone as a controller – use apps like Octopus or GameSir to emulate a gamepad.
- 🖥️ Cloud Games from PC – connect the gamepad to your computer and stream the image on TV via Steam Link or Moonlight.
For emulators (for example, Dolphin for GameCube), it is better to use specialized controllers, since DualShock 3 may not support all functions (for example, analog triggers). PS3, Consider buying a Brook Wingman adapter XE — It converts the signal to XInput, making the joystick compatible with most games.
For cloud services (Xbox Cloud Gaming, GeForce) NOW) required:
- Install the app on TV via Google Play.
- Connect the gamepad (better through) USB adapter).
- In the game settings, select Use Controller.
8 Conclusion: Which way to choose?
So let's summarize:
- 🔌 USB-Connection is the most reliable and versatile method, works on all Xiaomi models TV.
- 📶 Bluetooth is suitable for new TVs (2021)+), but may require manual adjustment.
- 🎮 Adapter – Optimal for older TVs or if you need to connect several gamepads.
If you play on TV often, we recommend you to buy it. 8BitDo Wireless Adapter 2 - it will solve the problem of compatibility once and for all, and also allow you to connect gamepads from other consoles. USB-cable.
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On Xiaomi TVs with Google TV (for example, Xiaomi TV A2) Automatic matching of gamepads is supported PS4/PS5, not PS3. The latter always requires manual adjustment or adapter.