For those of you lucky enough to get your hands on a PlayStation 5, you can connect your DualSense controller to Sony’s PS Remote Play mobile app to stream and play PS5 games from anywhere. DualSense support for remote play has been available on iOS since May 2021 and is just now rolling out to Android.
The Sony PS Remote Play app lets you stream and play PS4 and PS5 games through your compatible mobile device, and works over Wi-Fi or mobile data. As long as your console is on and connected to the internet, you’re good to go.
You used to be able to connect a DualShock 4 controller to PS Remote Play or use touch controls on your phone’s screen, but with Android 12 and a recent update from Sony, you can improve your experience with a DualSense controller. DualSense support has been available for iPhone (App Store link) from iOS 14.5 and Android 12 devices (Play Store link) since November 16, when Sony announced it on Twitter.
Along with DualSense compatibility, a recent update also introduced PS Remote Play support on Android 12 for the touchpad, motion sensor, vibration features, and battery indicator of the DualShock 4 controller. However, not all DualSense features are supported at this time. Early reports indicate that adaptive triggers work in some games, but haptic feedback does not.
There are currently only a handful of Android phones that support Android 12, such as the newer Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy models, but the list is constantly growing. Sony lists the Pixel 4 and Pixel 5 series as “verified”devices.
The DualSense controllers instantly became one of the best controllers to use with a redesigned form from the DualShock series and new immersive touch features including haptic feedback and adaptive triggers. The new haptic experience immerses you in the games you play by mimicking the feel of the actions and environments that appear on screen. Adaptive triggers, however, can replicate the feel of a gun trigger, the pull of a drawn string, and more.
DualSense, like its predecessor, can be used with other supported Android apps and games. However, while Google does provide some vibration support on the controller, the enhanced haptics and adaptive triggers won’t be usable like they are on your PS5 or via PS Remote Play. It’s unclear if Android 12 will get proper vibration support to take full advantage of DualSense for third-party games.