How to Connect Unsupported Bluetooth Devices to PS4: A Complete Guide

The PlayStation 4 (PS4) is a versatile gaming console that offers seamless gaming experiences, but it has a limitation when it comes to connecting certain Bluetooth devices. Struggling to connect your favorite Bluetooth device to your PS4? This guide will walk you through several methods to get your devices connected seamlessly.

However, with tools like this Bluetooth USB adapter, you can still connect your unsupported devices.

Out of the box, the PS4 doesn’t support many popular Bluetooth headphones, speakers, or controllers, leaving users frustrated when trying to pair unsupported Bluetooth devices.

However, with a few workarounds, you can still connect your unsupported Bluetooth devices to your PS4 and enjoy wireless audio or gameplay.

In this guide, we’ll explore the different methods you can use to connect unsupported Bluetooth devices to your PS4.

Why PS4 Doesn’t Support All Bluetooth Devices

The PS4 doesn’t support most Bluetooth audio devices due to a limitation that ensures smooth performance with its supported peripherals, such as the DualShock controllers and official headsets. This exclusion means most third-party Bluetooth devices will not pair directly with your console.

However, this doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy wireless audio on your PS4. By using a few simple tricks and devices, you can get your Bluetooth headphones or other Bluetooth peripherals working seamlessly.

Methods to Connect Unsupported Bluetooth Devices to PS4

1. Use a Bluetooth USB Adapter

One of the most effective ways to connect an unsupported Bluetooth device to your PS4 is by using a Bluetooth USB adapter. This device acts as a bridge between your PS4 and the Bluetooth device, allowing you to pair them even if the PS4 doesn’t support the device natively.

Steps to Connect:

• Plug the Bluetooth USB adapter into one of the USB ports on the front of your PS4.
• Turn on your Bluetooth device (e.g., headphones or controller) and set it in pairing mode.
• The Bluetooth USB adapter will automatically detect the Bluetooth device and establish a connection.
• On your PS4, go to “Settings” > “Devices” > “Audio Devices.”
• Set “Output to Headphones” to “All Audio” if you’re connecting headphones. You should now hear all game and chat audio through your Bluetooth device.

This method works for a variety of Bluetooth devices, including headsets, speakers, and controllers.

2. Use a Bluetooth Transmitter (for Audio Devices)

If you only want to connect Bluetooth headphones or speakers, a Bluetooth transmitter is another excellent option. Unlike a Bluetooth adapter that connects via USB, a transmitter connects through your PS4 controller’s 3.5mm headphone jack or directly to the console’s audio output.

Steps to Connect:

• Purchase a Bluetooth transmitter compatible with your headphones.
• Plug the transmitter into the 3.5mm headphone jack on your PS4 controller or the console’s optical audio port (depending on the transmitter model).
• Turn on your Bluetooth headphones and put them in pairing mode.
• The transmitter will automatically pair with your headphones, and you’ll be able to enjoy game audio wirelessly.
• You may need to adjust audio output settings by going to “Settings” > “Devices” > “Audio Devices” and setting the output to your headphones.

This is a great solution for wireless audio, especially if you have high-quality Bluetooth headphones that you’d prefer to use while gaming.

3. Use a Wired Connection with Your Bluetooth Device

For those who don’t want to purchase additional devices, another workaround is to connect your Bluetooth headphones via a wired connection. Most Bluetooth headphones come with a 3.5mm cable, which can be used to connect directly to the PS4 controller.

Steps to Connect:

• Plug one end of the 3.5mm audio cable into your Bluetooth headphones.
• Plug the other end into the headphone jack on the PS4 controller.
• On your PS4, go to “Settings” > “Devices” > “Audio Devices.”
• Set “Output to Headphones” to “All Audio.” Your game and chat audio should now play through your headphones.

This solution isn’t wireless, but it does allow you to use your favorite Bluetooth headphones without needing any additional adapters or transmitters.

4. Use the PS4 Remote Play App

If you’re looking to connect unsupported Bluetooth controllers or other devices, you can use the PS4 Remote Play app to bypass the Bluetooth restrictions. The PS4 Remote Play app allows you to use your mobile device or PC as a second screen, and you can connect Bluetooth controllers that the PS4 normally doesn’t support through your device.

Steps to Connect:

• Download and install the PS4 Remote Play app on your smartphone, tablet, or PC.
• Connect your Bluetooth device (e.g., controller) to the smartphone, tablet, or PC.
• Pair your device with your PS4 by logging into your PlayStation account on the Remote Play app.
• Once connected, you can use your Bluetooth device with the app to control your PS4 or listen to audio.

This method is a bit more complex but is particularly useful for gamers who want to use unsupported Bluetooth controllers for gaming.

Conclusion

While the PS4 has built-in limitations for connecting unsupported Bluetooth devices, there are multiple workarounds to bypass these restrictions. Whether you use a Bluetooth USB adapter, a transmitter, a wired connection, or the PS4 Remote Play app, you can easily connect your favorite Bluetooth headphones, speakers, or controllers.

With a little bit of setup, you can enjoy a fully wireless experience on your PS4, enhancing both convenience and gameplay immersion. Choose the method that best suits your device and enjoy gaming on your terms!