Steam Controller BLE

Bluetooth Low Energy Firmware FAQ

You can now add Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) functionality to your Steam Controller. This feature is required to enjoy the Steam Link app, but may provide benefit in other use cases as well. This FAQ describes what this BLE connection can and cannot do compared to the original wireless solution, steps to update your controller to add BLE support, and how to switch between wireless modes once the update is installed.

When is it a good idea to use Bluetooth? You'll want to use BLE mode when: Streaming games to your iOS and Android devices with the Steam Link app.

Connecting your Steam Controller to a tablet or laptop without a USB port.

You just can't find your Steam Controller Wireless Receiver. Otherwise we suggesting sticking with the original protocol. It provides the fastest connection, with low-latency support for up to four controllers per receiver, and works across all major operating systems. The BLE connection is excellent, but the native wireless protocol was designed from the ground up to provide the best experience for a Steam Controller.

How do I get this firmware? Be aware that the original wireless mode will still be available after adding Bluetooth support. However, the update process will clear all pairings, so you will need to reconnect your wireless receiver to your controller. The steps below guide you through the update and pairing process. Opt into the latest Steam Client Beta Plug in your Steam Controller. Click here to start the firmware update flow, or follow the directions below Navigate to the Controller Settings page, find the Steam Controller you would like to update in the Detect Controllers list, and select the Bluetooth FW button. Click Start and be patient. The update may take several minutes. Interrupting the process is a bad idea. Once the firmware is successfully completed, select Learn More on the dialog - you will be taken to this knowledgebase article to learn more about the new firmware. When you’re ready to move on, exit the page and return to Controller settings. Unplug your controller. Select the Add a Steam Controller button on the Controller Settings page. This option only appears if a Wireless Receiver is currently plugged in. Press X + Steam Button on your controller and enter the 4 character Validation Code that appears on the screen. Congrats! You have reconnected your controller to the Wireless Receiver. Next, connect over BLE by navigating to the Add Bluetooth option of your device. When prompted, press Y + Steam Button on your Steam Controller to make it discoverable.

How do I switch between modes? If you have already followed the instructions above, you are paired via the Steam Controller Wireless Receiver and BLE. Use the commands below to start your controller in the mode of your choice. Bluetooth LE Pairing Mode You’ll need to do this in order to use the Steam Link app Switch to Bluetooth LE mode Launches controller in BLE mode Receiver Pairing Mode Pair your controller to a new receiver Switch to dongle mode Use your controller in Original Receiver Mode

Pairing to Multiple Devices The Steam Controller BLE firmware can store two Bluetooth connections. Connect to the most recently used Bluetooth device by pressing Steam+B . Connect to the second stored Bluetooth connection by pressing Steam+Start. The firmware can also store multiple wireless receiver connections. Connect to the most recently used wireless receiver by pressing Steam+A . Connect to a different stored wireless receiver by pressing Steam+Back. Powering up with the Steam button only will connect you to the most recently used device and pairing mode Supported Operating Systems Bluetooth connectivity is supported in: Windows 10

OS X

Ubuntu

SteamOS