Xbox Series X controller support is coming to Apple devices in future update

By Giovanni Colantonio Published November 20, 2020

A new update on an Apple support page confirms that Xbox Series X controller support is coming to Apple devices. The update would allow players to pair new Xbox controllers to devices like iPhones and Macs.

Apple mentioned that it is actively working on bringing Xbox controller support to its devices on its page that details how to pair the DualShock 4 and the Xbox Wireless Controller to Apple products. Under a list of supported controllers, the page notes that “Microsoft and Apple are working together to bring compatibility for the Xbox Series X controller to customers in a future update.” No exact release date or time frame is listed.

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The planned update will allow Xbox owners to play supported games from Apple Arcade and the App Store with the new controller on iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch, Apple TV, and Mac.

Curiously, the support page doesn’t mention PlayStation 5’s DualSense controller yet. While DualSense support seems likely, Apple doesn’t mention an active collaboration with Sony for controller support.

While the update isn’t surprising, it’s important for Microsoft as it builds out its xCloud offering. Microsoft’s cloud gaming service is currently only available on Android devices, with Apple support planned next year. Apple recently put somewhat of a wrench in those plans after updating its app guidelines to say that catalogue streaming services like xCloud must still offer each game as its own separate download.

In the meantime, Apple devices currently support the Xbox Wireless Controller, Elite Series 2, and Microsoft’s Adaptive Controller, all of which are on our list of the best Xbox One controllers currently available.

Giovanni Colantonio

Former Senior Gaming Editor

As a veteran of the industry who first began writing about games professionally as a teenager, Giovanni brings a wealth of…

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