Control PS4 with Smartphone: A Simple Guide

Remote Control and Enhanced Input with PlayStation App

The official PlayStation app from Sony is accessible on both Android and iOS mobile devices. This application enables users to manage their PS4 consoles remotely.

Functionality extends to utilizing the app as a remote control for media playback. Furthermore, it provides a convenient keyboard alternative, eliminating the need for the PS4 controller or the on-screen keyboard.

Smartphone Apps as "Second Screens"

Unlike Nintendo, which included a touchscreen gamepad directly with its console, both Sony and Microsoft have implemented a "second screen" experience through dedicated smartphone applications.

Although integration within games isn't as pervasive, this feature remains a valuable addition to the gaming experience. It offers supplementary control and input options.

The app serves as a useful tool for those seeking alternative methods of interaction with their consoles.

Utilizing the PlayStation App

Certain functionalities necessitate the use of Sony’s official PlayStation application. This app can be downloaded from both the Apple App Store and Google Play.

Originally developed for iPhones and Android smartphones, the application’s compatibility has since been expanded to include iPads and Android tablets.

App Installation and Login

Begin by installing the application on your device of choice, then initiate the launch sequence.

Ensure you log in using the identical PlayStation Network account that is associated with your PS4 console.

Establishing a Connection: Linking Your PS4

Utilizing the second screen functionality requires initiating a connection through the application. Select the "Connect to PS4" icon within the app, followed by tapping "Second Screen." Provided both your smartphone and PlayStation 4 are operating on the identical network, automatic detection of your PS4 should occur.

Simply tap the detected PS4 to establish the link. Should your PS4 not appear in the list, verify that both devices are indeed connected to the same network. This is a crucial first step for successful operation.

Following this, navigate to the Settings menu on your PS4, then select PlayStation App Connection Settings, and finally choose Add Device. A unique code will be displayed on your console. Enter this code into the application to complete the registration of your smartphone.

The PlayStation App Connection Settings screen on your PS4 provides a comprehensive list of currently connected devices. From here, you also have the ability to remove devices as needed.

Upon successful completion, the app will confirm the connection status when you select Connect to PS4 > Second Screen. This screen also conveniently features a power button, enabling quick access to the PS4’s rest mode.

how-to-control-your-playstation-4-with-your-smartphone-1.jpg

Utilizing Your Smartphone as a PS4 Remote Control

Controlling your PlayStation 4 with your smartphone is a straightforward process. Begin by navigating to Connect to PS4 > Second Screen within the PS4 settings, and then select the "Second Screen" button associated with your console's name.

This action will display a remote control interface on your phone, featuring four distinct icons positioned at the top of the screen.

Functionality of the Second Screen Icons

The initial icon enables the app to function as a supplementary display during gameplay, provided the game offers this compatibility. The second icon transforms your phone into a touchpad, allowing you to navigate the PS4’s user interface through swipes and taps.

A virtual keyboard is accessible via the third icon, streamlining text input within the console’s various fields. Finally, the fourth icon facilitates the viewing of spectator comments during live gameplay broadcasts.

For those seeking a consistently accessible keyboard, consider a wireless Bluetooth keyboard and mouse connection to your PS4, bypassing the need to unlock your smartphone each time.

While certain games leverage the "second screen" functionality to display maps or inventory details, implementation remains limited. If a game lacks support, a message indicating "This screen is currently not in use" will appear upon selecting the leftmost icon.

how-to-control-your-playstation-4-with-your-smartphone-2.jpg

Leveraging Additional PlayStation Capabilities, Including Remote Access

Beyond remote play, the application offers a range of supplementary functionalities. These capabilities necessitate a connection to Sony’s PlayStation Network servers, ensuring accessibility regardless of your PS4’s power state.

The primary interface presents your “What’s New” activity feed, live gameplay broadcasts, a directory of friends, notifications, and other social elements typically found only on the console itself.

Selecting "Messages" will prompt you to download the dedicated PlayStation Messages application, available through the Apple App Store or Google Play. This enables message exchange utilizing the identical PlayStation messaging system as your PS4.

Choosing the "Store" option redirects you to the PlayStation Store on your mobile device, facilitating browsing and purchasing of games, demos, films, and television programs. With standard rest mode configurations, your PS4 will automatically activate and initiate downloads of purchased content, subsequently returning to rest mode. Content will then be available for play upon your return.

Accessing the menu adjacent to your profile icon reveals further options, including quick access to your profile, trophy collection, and promotional code redemption. This feature streamlines code entry, allowing you to utilize your phone’s camera for scanning or a mobile keyboard for input, bypassing the need for controller-based typing.

Sony’s application delivers a diverse set of useful tools, though it isn’t strictly essential. A limited number of games have integrated their own second-screen features leveraging this app.

Developers have, at times, opted to develop bespoke companion applications compatible with PS4, Xbox One, and PC, rather than depending on Sony’s platform.