Finding the one model of Xbox controller that’s compatible with Apple Arcade is now as easy as ordering it from the Apple Store.
Many of the games in this company’s new gaming service can be played with an Xbox or PS4 wireless controller, but only a very limited selection of controllers are supported. Listing one in Apple’s online store simplifies getting the right one.
PS4 and Xbox controllers for iPhone, iPad, Apple TV and Mac
iOS 13, iPadOS 13, macOS Catalina and tvOS 13 all brought support for Apple Arcade, an all-you-can-play service with dozens of games. A subscription costs $4.99 a month, and there’s never any in-app purchases or advertisements.
To make playing games easier, support for Xbox and PS4 controllers was also built in to these operating system updates. But not just any controllers. According to Apple, the only compatible options are the PlayStation DUALSHOCK 4 Wireless Controller and the Xbox Wireless Controller with Bluetooth (Model 1708).
Cult of Mac tests confirm that only Model 1708 controllers are supported. That complicates purchasing, as retailers often don’t list the exact model number when selling these products.
Anyone wanting to be sure they‘re buying the right one can get it through the Apple Store. The cost is $59.95, which is Microsoft’s suggested price.
Buy from: Apple — $59.95
This is the controller that shipped with the Xbox One S.
The PlayStation 4 alternative
Purchasing the right PS4 controller is simpler, and potentially cheaper. The DualShock 4 Wireless Controller is always sold under that name, and while it also has a $59.95 suggested price it is available elsewhere for less.
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Cult of Mac can confirm that the DualShock 4 is compatible with Apple Arcade.
