How to Use a PS4 Wireless DualShock 4 Controller With Your PS3

Sony’s recent update 4.60 has enabled gamers to use wireless DualShock 4 control pads with PlayStation 3 consoles…albeit with a few pesky limitations.

Good news for those still having trouble making a true transition to next-generation console gaming – you can now use your wireless PlayStation 4 controller with your trusty PS3 console. Admittedly not the most exciting news in the world given how USB charge cables facilitated the same thing from day one, but still…convenient stuff nonetheless!

Update 4.60 has made it possible to use DualShock 4 controllers on the PS3 with no cables and the good news it it’s easy to sort out.

As for the bad news, the DualShock 4’s Sixaxis tilt controls, vibration and PlayStation buttons remain redundant for the time being – the PS button for turning the console on and off however is operational.

Here’s the post from Reddit describing exactly how to get your PS4 pad up and running for PS3 use:

  1. Select “Manage Bluetooth Devices” under “Accessory Settings” in the PS3 settings menu.
  2. Select “Register New Device,” then start the PS3’s Bluetooth scanning.
  3. While it’s scanning, press and hold the share and PS buttons on the DualShock 4 at the same time until the light bar starts blinking.
  4. The PS3 should then detect the controller, which will appear as “Wireless Controller.’
  5. Select the controller and complete the pairing.

And there you have it – cross-generation gaming at its finest!