Dualshock 4 Bluetooth Connection Problems

I've been using Dualshock 4 with my MacBook without any issue for months, but suddenly it cannot connect through bluetooth anymore.

When pressing the PS button, the controller flashes and does not connect. MacBook shows the device as disconnected or simply does not see it when it is removed from the list in the preferences. When pressing the PS and Share buttons together, the light on the controller flashes rapidly, MacBook sees the Wireless Controller. When I click connect, MacBook says 'connected,' but the light on the controller still flashes rapidly instead of staying lit, the Wireless Controller device shows the loading swirl for a while and MacBook says 'connection failed,' after which the controller stops flashing.

I've tried erasing the com.apple.Bluetooth.plist file from Macintosh/Library/Preferences and restarting the MacBook, after which the controller does connect after pressing the PS and Share buttons together and clicking connect, but only one time. When I turn off the controller and turn it back on, the same issue repeats itself, the controller is flashing and cannot connect to the device (when it used to connect automatically when turned on).

If anybody knows how to solve this problem I will be very thankful. Kind regards.

MacBook Air 13″, 10.13

Posted on Dec 29, 2020 11:12 AM

Reply

Similar questions

3 replies

Dec 31, 2020 1:37 PM in response to pyrolusite_d

Hello Pyrolusite_d,


It sounds like you are experiencing Bluetooth connectivity issues while using a controller. We understand the importance of making sure your Bluetooth is working as expected.


First, let's check for any Bluetooth connectivity inference. This article will provide some guidance: Resolve Wi-Fi and Bluetooth issues caused by wireless interference


If the issue persist can you provide a few more details? Are you able to connect any other Bluetooth devices to your Mac? Can you connect your controller to any other computers? Also, which macOS version are you currently using?


Cheers!

Jan 2, 2021 2:52 PM in response to barberlives123

Thank you for advice. I checked the connectivity interference and there is no problem with it whatsoever. I don't think there's any issue with my MacBook at this point because I can connect wireless headphones and speakers without any problem to it through Bluetooth, but what's more is that maybe the Dualshock 4 is having some problems of its own:

I tried connecting it to my iPhone and it does connect as expected at first, but just as in the case with the MacBook, after I disconnect it and turn it back on, I cannot connect the controller unless I make the phone forget the device. I also noticed this strange thing that when I disconnect the controller and try to turn it on again, it does not turn on for a few minutes, no light is flashing while holding the PS button, no response from the controller whatsoever, so it leads me to believe that it is reconfiguring itself or something of that sort. I don't know what this means or how to even look up this issue, but I'd be glad if you help sort it out or guide me to a solution at least.

My MacBook is running macOS High Sierra version 10.13.6 which I haven't encountered any issues with until now and I feel comfortable with it and don't plan on updating. If any other information is needed from me I can certainly provide it. I cannot read terminal scripts and such so if you can figure something out from the com.apple.Bluetooth.plist files I can send them too, but I do think it might be the problem of the Dualshock 4 more than the MacBook. If you have any more recommendations I'd be glad to cooperate.


Thank You! And Happy New Year!

This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

Dualshock 4 Bluetooth Connection Problems

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.