Yes. The Xbox Wireless Controller for Xbox Series X|S connects to compatible Android phones and tablets through Bluetooth, or by a compatible USB-C data cable. Pair it in Android’s Bluetooth settings, then test it in a game that supports external controllers.
What you need
- An Xbox Wireless Controller designed for Xbox Series X|S, with working AA batteries or a charged rechargeable pack.
- An Android phone or tablet with Bluetooth enabled.
- A game or cloud-gaming app that accepts controller input.
Microsoft specifies AA batteries and claims up to 40 hours of battery life under its test conditions; actual runtime varies with use and accessories. See the Microsoft product page.
This guide covers the Series X|S controller. Some Xbox One controllers also have Bluetooth, but Xbox branding alone does not guarantee Bluetooth support. Xbox consoles use Xbox Wireless, while Android uses Bluetooth; an Xbox Wireless Adapter for PC is not required.
Pair the controller over Bluetooth
- Press the Xbox button to turn on the controller.
- Press and hold the small Pair button for about three seconds. The Xbox logo should flash rapidly.
- On Android, open Settings.
- Choose Connected devices, then Pair new device. Samsung, OnePlus, Xiaomi, Motorola and other interfaces may use different labels.
- Select Xbox Wireless Controller from the list.
- Accept a pairing prompt if Android displays one.
When pairing succeeds, the Xbox button normally stops flashing and remains lit. If the controller already appears under previously connected devices, tap its name to reconnect it. Google’s current general instructions are in Android Help.
#1 Best Overall
- MODERNIZED DESIGN — Experience the modernized design of the XBOX Wireless Controller with sculpted surfaces and updated geometry that enhances comfort and control during long gaming sessions.
- PRECISION PERFORMANCE — Stay on target with a hybrid D-pad and textured grips on triggers, bumpers, and back case for improved accuracy and handling.
- SHARE BUTTON: Seamlessly capture and share content such as screenshots, recordings, and more with the new Share button.
- VERSATILE CONNECTIVITY — Connect via USB-C for plug-and-play on console and PC, or quickly pair and switch between supported devices with XBOX Wireless and Bluetooth support.
- BUILT-IN AUDIO SUPPORT — Plug in compatible headsets using the 3.5mm audio jack for direct voice chat and immersive in-game sound.
Use a wired USB-C connection
Bluetooth is the normal method, but a wired connection can help when pairing fails, Bluetooth is unreliable, or you want to avoid wireless battery use.
- Turn on the Android phone or tablet.
- Connect the controller with a compatible USB-C data cable.
- Allow any USB or controller prompt Android shows.
- Open a controller-compatible game and test the buttons and sticks.
Not every USB-C cable carries data, and not every Android device supports the required USB host or OTG mode. Adapters, the phone’s USB implementation, Android software and the game can all affect compatibility.
Rank #2
- MODERNIZED DESIGN — Experience the modernized design of the XBOX Wireless Controller with sculpted surfaces and updated geometry that enhances comfort and control during long gaming sessions.
- PRECISION PERFORMANCE — Stay on target with a hybrid D-pad and textured grips on triggers, bumpers, and back case for improved accuracy and handling.
- SHARE BUTTON: Seamlessly capture and share content such as screenshots, recordings, and more with the new Share button.
- VERSATILE CONNECTIVITY — Connect via USB-C for plug-and-play on console and PC, or quickly pair and switch between supported devices with XBOX Wireless and Bluetooth support.
- BUILT-IN AUDIO SUPPORT — Plug in compatible headsets using the 3.5mm audio jack for direct voice chat and immersive in-game sound.
Confirm that Android recognizes it
- Android lists Xbox Wireless Controller as connected under Bluetooth or connected devices.
- The controller’s Xbox button stays lit instead of rapidly flashing.
- A known controller-compatible game responds to buttons and analog sticks.
- On supported Android versions, controller options may appear under Settings → System → Game controllers for wired devices or in the connected controller’s settings for wireless devices.
A connected status proves that Android completed the link, not that every game accepts the input. Apps choose which controllers and controls they support; some support menus but not gameplay, or require controller input to be enabled in their own settings.
Bluetooth and USB-C compared
| Method | Advantages | Trade-offs |
|---|---|---|
| Bluetooth | Wireless, no cable attached, convenient for phones and tablets | Requires pairing, uses controller battery, can encounter interference, and feature support varies |
| USB-C | No Bluetooth pairing and often a steadier diagnostic connection | Needs a data cable, may require an adapter, occupies the phone’s port, and depends on USB host support |
Fix pairing problems
The controller is not listed
- Confirm the Xbox button is lit.
- Hold Pair again until the Xbox logo flashes rapidly.
- Toggle Android Bluetooth off and back on.
- Move the controller close to the phone or tablet.
- Turn off or move away from a nearby Xbox, PC or previously paired host.
- Restart Android.
- Remove an old Xbox Wireless Controller entry, then use Pair new device again.
- Replace or recharge the batteries.
- Try USB-C to determine whether the fault is limited to Bluetooth.
It reconnects to the Xbox
The controller may be trying to reach its previous Xbox Wireless host. Temporarily turn off the console, leave its range, or enter Bluetooth pairing mode again before selecting the controller on Android. Supported controller models with updated firmware may remember a Bluetooth host and an Xbox Wireless host and switch between them with the Pair button, but behavior depends on the model and firmware. Microsoft’s explanation is in Xbox Wire.
Rank #3
- MODERNIZED DESIGN — Experience the modernized design of the XBOX Wireless Controller with sculpted surfaces and updated geometry that enhances comfort and control during long gaming sessions.
- PRECISION PERFORMANCE — Stay on target with a hybrid D-pad and textured grips on triggers, bumpers, and back case for improved accuracy and handling.
- SHARE BUTTON: Seamlessly capture and share content such as screenshots, recordings, and more with the new Share button.
- VERSATILE CONNECTIVITY — Connect via USB-C for plug-and-play on console and PC, or quickly pair and switch between supported devices with XBOX Wireless and Bluetooth support.
- BUILT-IN AUDIO SUPPORT — Plug in compatible headsets using the 3.5mm audio jack for direct voice chat and immersive in-game sound.
Android says “Couldn’t connect”
- Forget the old controller entry.
- Hold the Xbox button to turn the controller off, turn it on again, and re-enter pairing mode.
- Restart Bluetooth or Android.
- Pair from Pair new device instead of a stale notification.
- Disconnect other Bluetooth gamepads temporarily.
- Update controller firmware, then retry.
It pairs but a game ignores it
- Verify Android still reports the controller as connected.
- Test another known controller-compatible game or service.
- Check the game’s controller settings.
- Restart the game after pairing; some apps detect controllers only at launch.
- Update the game and Android.
- Disconnect other input devices and check whether overlays or accessibility tools intercept input.
- Compare Bluetooth with USB-C.
A 2021 Android community report described incomplete Xbox-controller input in particular Android 11 apps. Treat that as historical, app- and device-specific evidence, not a universal Android limitation: Google Android Community.
There is lag, a dropout or missing features
Replace or recharge batteries, keep the devices close with fewer obstructions, temporarily disconnect headphones, watches and other Bluetooth devices, and restart the controller and game. Update Android and controller firmware. For cloud gaming, separate Bluetooth delay from network streaming delay: a strong controller connection cannot correct a congested Wi-Fi or mobile-data connection.
Rank #4
- PLAY LIKE A PRO — The XBOX Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 features over 30 ways to play like a pro. Designed in collaboration with pro-level players, it puts exceptional performance, customization, and durability where it matters most.
- ADJUSTABLE-TENSION THUMBSTICKS — Fine-tune your aim with thumbsticks that let you adjust resistance for improved accuracy, consistency, and control in every match.
- SHORTER HAIR TRIGGER LOCKS — Fire faster and react quicker with three-step hair trigger locks that reduce pull distance for rapid input in competitive gameplay.
- INTERCHANGEABLE COMPONENTS — Swap thumbstick toppers, D-pads, and paddles to tailor your controller to your preferred gaming style. Includes 6 thumbsticks, 4 paddles, 2 D-pads, carrying case, and charging dock.
- SAVE AND SWITCH PROFILES — Save up to 3 custom profiles on the controller and switch between them on the fly with the dedicated Profile button. Even pick which color the XBOX button lights up as.
Feature limitations on Android
Microsoft qualifies compatibility by device, operating-system version and application, and notes that some functionality is unsupported on Android or over Bluetooth. Vibration may depend on the game and connection method; headset audio through the controller should not be assumed; the Share button has no universal Android function; trigger effects and special Xbox features may be unavailable; and remapping can be controlled by the game or platform. Consult Microsoft’s compatibility information for the controller.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Update the controller firmware
Android is not necessarily the update route. When pairing or input remains unreliable, update the controller through an Xbox console or a Windows PC using the Xbox Accessories app, then repeat pairing. Do not assume that every controller revision supports identical firmware features.
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Xbox Cloud Gaming and other services
The controller can be used with Android-compatible cloud-gaming apps when those services support external controllers. Pairing only connects the hardware; access also depends on the service, account, region, plan, device, network and current service requirements. It does not provide a subscription or guarantee access to every game.
When a different controller makes sense
If you already own the Series X|S controller, no adapter is needed for Bluetooth Android pairing. A dedicated mobile controller may suit you better if you need an integrated phone grip, a smaller travel shape, direct USB-C attachment or mobile-specific controls. Consider replacing the Xbox controller only if it lacks Bluetooth, has a hardware fault or is not a Bluetooth-capable model.
Sources and compatibility notes
Microsoft lists the controller for Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows, Android and iOS, subject to supported devices and operating-system versions. The official Xbox overview is available at xbox.com. Microsoft’s Series X|S controller announcement explains Bluetooth Low Energy and cross-device compatibility: Xbox Wire. For first-party troubleshooting, see Xbox Support.
Quick Recap
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