If you just got a new controller and want to sync it to your Xbox, you need to make sure the controller is synced and recognized by the console.
The process of setting it up is straightforward, so follow these steps to set up your Xbox controller to your console in no time.
Step-by-Step: Syncing Your Xbox Controller
- Plug your controller into the console.
- Press and hold the Xbox button in the middle of the controller to turn it on.
- The controller light should now begin flashing.
- On your Xbox console, press the connect button.
- Press and hold the sync button at the top of the controller to initiate pairing mode. The light will become steady once the pairing is finished.
If the controller’s light doesn’t flash, make sure it’s fully charged or has new batteries.
Also, the Xbox One S and Xbox One X buttons are located under the power button. However, on the original version of the Xbox One, it’s on the console’s left, near the disc entrance.
Troubleshooting Synchronization Issues
Three of the most common issues when the controller fails to sync are:
Dead Controller or Low Batteries
If you haven’t charged your controller for a while and it refuses to sync, you should first try to give it a full charge. If that doesn’t solve it, trying a new battery may help.
Pairing Capacity Reached
You can only sync a maximum of 8 controllers to an Xbox. So if friends often come to your house and bring their own controllers, your Xbox may be at controller capacity.
Remove paired controllers by pressing and holding the sync button on top of your Xbox controller until it vibrates twice, signaling that the control is now unsynced.
If you don’t have your friend’s control handy, resetting your console to factory settings also fixes the issue.
Firmware Update Failure
If your controller was disconnected during a firmware update, it might stop syncing altogether. Ask a friend for a second controller or use a spare and follow these steps to deal with the issue.
Syncing Your Xbox Controller After Firmware Update Failure
To restore the first controller’s sync function, follow these simple steps.
- Navigate to Settings > Devices and Accessories on your Xbox.
- Look for the controller that’s not syncing. It should be labeled with a note saying: Updated Required.
- Select it and restart the firmware update.
- Wait for the update to download and install. Don’t disconnect the controller during this procedure.
And that’s all there is to setting up and syncing your controller to an Xbox console. You’re now all set up and ready to play your favorite games!
