It’s tough to go back once you get used to something new and improved. Sony understands this and is doing what it can to make sure PlayStation 4 owners don’t have to go back to an old controller when playing their PlayStation 3s.
Sony has updated the PlayStation 3 to add wireless support for the DualShock 4 (which a poster on Reddit spotted). This means you no longer need to plug in the PlayStation 4 gamepad into the PS3 with a USB cord to use it on the last-gen console. Players started using the DS4 with the PS3 in November, but it required a wired connection.
To pair the new input device with the PS3, head into the system’s Manage Bluetooth Devices section in the Accessory Settings. The DS4 will connect as a generic controller, which means you won’t have full functionality. For example, the home button won’t work. The DS4 can power on the PS3 wirelessly as long as it is paired with the console.
The DualShock 4 is the latest redesign of Sony’s PlayStation controller. It is the official joypad for the PlayStation 4, and many gamers consider it a vast improvement over the DS3. Sony focused on the ergonomics, the weight, and the features for the DS4.
During the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 generation, Microsoft’s controller was able to establish itself as the defacto standard in the industry. Gamers like the way it feels, and Microsoft added full support for the controller on PC. This time around, Sony is capturing some of that based on the quality of the DS4 — although it still does not include native PC support.
