Unlike other devices (iOS, Android, macOS, Windows), pairing AirPods with PS4 and Xbox isn’t easy. But if you’re a gamer and love your wireless headphones, you can comfortably use them while you play. So, while the process isn’t easy, here’s how to connect and use AirPods with PS4 and Xbox controller.
Note. The following method works for AirPods (1st, 2nd and 3rd generation), AirPods Pro (1st and 2nd generation) and AirPods Max.
How to Connect AirPods to PS4 Controller
Since you can’t directly connect any version of AirPods, including the latest AirPods Pro 2, to PS4, we’ll have to use a Bluetooth dongle. That’s why we chose the AirFly Pro from Twelve South, which we already reviewed some time ago.
- Connect your AirFly Pro to the Dualshock 4’s 3.5mm headphone jack.
- Put your AirFly Pro into TX mode (transmit mode). Hold the button for a few seconds until you see the indicator flash. Device ready to pair
- Open the AirPods case with both pieces inside. Now press and hold the pairing button on the back of the charging case. After a few seconds, you will see the AirPods case light flashing white.
- Wait a few seconds for AirFly Pro and AirPods to connect. After successful pairing, AirFly will turn white. The AirPods case light will glow green (when the case is sufficiently charged) or amber (when less than one full charge remains). However, your AirPods are now connected to the AirFly Pro which is connected to the PS4 controller.
Disadvantage: You can only hear chat and other incoming sounds. You cannot answer as AirFly Pro can only transmit to headphones. It cannot receive audio from your voice chat.
Other AirFly Pro Alternatives to Connect AirPods to PS4
- PS4 Wireless Bluetooth Dongle: It allows you to listen and talk through your Apple AirPods while you play. We haven’t tested this though
- Avantree Leaf Class 1 Long Range USB Bluetooth Audio Transmitter: It is claimed to have a talk mode that allows chatting, although we haven’t tested it and therefore can’t confirm or deny.
Another way is to use the Remote Play app on iPhone and Android. It’s simple. You must first register and activate it on PS4. After that, go to your smartphone’s Bluetooth settings and pair your AirPods.
This method has its fair share of hits, misses and jerks. But, since PlayStation only allows you to seamlessly connect officially licensed wireless headphones, there are some sacrifices to make if you want to use AirPods with PS4.
Finally, you can also try connecting your AirPods to your smart TV. If it does, incoming audio from the PlayStation will be routed to the AirPods via the Smart TV.