Sony introducing native DUALSHOCK 3 controller support for Xperia phones

Just yesterday we were talking about increased compatibility and functionality between different Sony devices and now we can soon add another to the list. It appears that Sony Mobile will shortly introduce native support for the DUALSHOCK 3 PlayStation 3 controller. This means full wireless support to play Android/PlayStation Mobile games without the need for a rooted device and additional software.

This software functionality was spied in the upcoming Sony Xperia SP (C530X) settings menu (Settings > Xperia). From here you will find a ‘DUALSHOCK 3 wireless controller’ menu option. You then need to connect the controller to your phone via an USB-OTG cable. Once this is done, you can remove the cable and the phone and controller will now be connected via Bluetooth.



From this menu setting, you can then power off the connection between both devices. However, if you want to re-connect, you simply need to hold down the PS button on the controller and they will automatically pair. No need to connect via USB-OTG again.

This has been a long time coming, especially given the trend for larger phones as well as increased connectivity options to a TV. Using a controller is still the preferred input mechanism for many over a touchscreen. We don’t know whether support will also come to other handsets such as the Xperia Z, but we’d be very surprised if this wasn’t the case.

Thanks @djnermal!