RetroCompass
RetroCompass

8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth — Bluetooth

Quick answer

Button combo

HOME(power on)PAIR(hold 3s)

Steps

  1. 1Press HOME to power on the controller.
  2. 2Hold PAIR 3s until the status LED blinks rapidly.
  3. 3Open Bluetooth settings on Android, Windows, or macOS.
  4. 4Select "8BitDo Ultimate ..." from the device list to pair.
  5. 5The status LED turns solid blue when connected.

LED states

  • Fast blinkDiscoverable / pairing
  • SolidBluetooth connected
Last verified: 2026-06-20Source: support.8bitdo.com

For Android, Windows, or macOS, the Ultimate Bluetooth connects as a standard Bluetooth gamepad. Power on with HOME, hold PAIR for 3 seconds to make it discoverable, then select it in your device's Bluetooth menu. Use the 8BitDo Ultimate Software (also on Android/iOS) to remap buttons once connected.

FAQ

Does it work on iOS?
It connects over Bluetooth and the Ultimate Software is on iOS/Android, but Switch/Android modes are its focus; iOS app support varies, so check the latest 8BitDo app listing.
Can I keep both Switch and a phone paired?
It stores one active host at a time; re-pair (PAIR 3s) to switch the controller to a different device.