Ever since the DualShock 4 was introduced in conjunction with the PlayStation 4 last fall, I have been clamoring to use the superior controller with my PlayStation 3. While it has been possible to use the DualShock 4 directly wired to the PlayStation 3, it was not possible to use it wirelessly until now. On June 23rd the PlayStation 3 received updated firmware which discreetly added the ability to pair a DualShock 4 with a PlayStation 3 system. Keep reading for our step-by-step guide on how to use this new function.

How To- Use a DualShock 4 Wirelessy with a PS3

1) Confirm that your PlayStation 3 firmware is updated to the latest version (4.60 as of July 5, 2014)

2) Have both a DualShock 3 and a DualShock 4 charged and ready to use.

3) Make sure you have a DualShock 3 in your hands and on the PlayStation 3 scroll to settings (Found immediately to the right of Users)  –> then scroll down to Accessory Settings and press X –> From this new list scroll down to Manage Bluetooth Devices and Press X

4) You will see one of two screens at this point depending on the other devices you have registered to your PlayStation 3.

• Option 1) If you do not have any Bluetooth devices currently registered with your PlayStation 3 you will see a message that says “There are no Bluetooth devices registered. Do you want to register a device?” Select Yes—> Another message will appear telling you that you will need to prepare your Bluetooth device. At this point make sure your DualShock 4 nearby. Once you are ready, select Start Scanning.

• Option 2) If you have other Bluetooth devices registered to your PlayStation 3 you will see a list of the devices. Scroll to the bottom of the page and select Register New Device—>Another message will appear telling you that you will need to prepare your Bluetooth device. At this point make sure your DualShock 4 nearby. Once you are ready, select Start Scanning.

5) Your PlayStation 3 is now searching for nearby Bluetooth devices. Pick up your DualShock 4 and hold both the PS Button and Share button simultaneously. After a few moments the lightbar on your DualShock 4 will begin to flash and eventually a new message will appear on the PlayStation 3.

*** If you are having issues with your PlayStation 4 turning on during this step, I highly recommend unplugging its power cord while you are working through this process***

6) Pick up your DualShock 3 again and click X on Wireless Controller. After a few moments you will see a message telling you that registration is complete. You can now use your DualShock 4 wirelessly with your PlayStation 3.

7) A few final tidbits:

1) The touchpad and PS Button will not work while using the DualShock 4 with the PlayStation 3, so make sure you keep the DualShock 3 handy if you need to access the XMB.

2) Syncing the DualShock 4 with your PlayStation 3 will also desync the controller with your PlayStation 4. To resync it you will need to reconnect the controller with your PlayStation 4 using the USB cable.

3) Not all PlayStation 3 games currently support the use of the DualShock 4. I have not tried many but I can confirm that The Last of Us supports it, but NBA 2K14 does not.

You should now be able to wirelessly use your DualShock 4 on your PlayStation 3. Check back next week for our next installment of  “How To-“.

Discuss:

Are you excited at the prospect of using the DualShock 4 on the PlayStation 3? Also, if you have found any PlayStation 3 games that support the DualShock 4 please let us know in the comment section.