Xbox One Controller Not Connecting to Console {Solved}

Nowadays the most popular gaming device is Xbox. However, as in the case of all devices, gamers occasionally do face certain problems. One common problem is that the controller is unable to connect to the game console. As frustrating as this problem is for any gamer, it can be fixed in various ways. This article is about fixing the Xbox One Controller not Connecting to Console.

What are the Reasons behind Xbox One Controller Not Connecting to Console?

There are various possible causes of the connection problem between the controller and the console. The following are some of the common reasons behind this problem.

1. Depleted battery: The controller will not function as desired if its battery is depleted or dead.

2. Out of Range: You might be using the controller further away from the console than their maximum connection range.

3. More than maximum permissible controllers: Xbox One enables a maximum of eight controllers to be connected to a console at a time. If any extra controller is being used, it will not connect.

4. Interference by another wireless device: Since most electronic devices in our houses access the same spectrum, another wireless device nearby may interfere with the functioning of the controller.

5. Outdated controller drivers: There are drivers used by controllers, just as other devices, and if these are not updated or are faulty, the controllers may not function properly.

It is not always easy to determine the exact cause of the connection problem. However, keeping the above possible factors in mind, one can try the below solutions.

How to Fix Xbox One Controller Not Connecting to Console

Solution 1: Check the Batteries

In case the batteries are depleted, the wireless signal of the controller will be weakened. To ensure good signal strength, make sure the batteries are not dead. If they are, insert new fully-charged ones. Avoid inserting batteries of other devices, as they may not have the sufficient power required by the controller.

Solution 2: Reduce the Distance

Signals of Xbox One controllers have a maximum range of 30 feet or 9.1 metres. If your controller is farther away than that from the console, it will face difficulty in connecting. Thus, move as close as possible to the console in order to operate the controller effectively with sufficient signal strength. Besides, ensure that no solid object exists between the console and controller, as the signal will then weaken.

Solution 3: Update the Drivers

There are drivers or firmware in the controller which may be outdated or corrupted, hence causing the problem. A firmware update may thus fix the problem. To update the firmware or drivers of the controller, follow the steps below:

Step 1: Connect to Xbox Live, and press the Xbox button on your controller.

Step 2: On the screen, select System.

Step 3: Then select Settings.

Step 4: In Settings, go to Kinect and Devices.

Step 5: Then select Devices and Accessories.

Step 6: Now select the controller that needs the update. It will display the message “Update Required”.

Step 7: Click on Device Info or the three-dot icon to enter Device Info section.

Step 8: Click on Firmware Version, and then select Update Now. This will update the controller’s drivers.

Wait for the update process to complete, then check whether the controller is working fine.

Solution 4: Turn off Other Wireless Devices

Wireless electronic devices access the same spectrum for transmission of signals. Thus, the presence of another electronic device, particularly wireless ones, may hamper the signal transmissions of the Xbox controller. Ensure that no other wireless electronic device is present in the vicinity of the Xbox set-up.

Solution 5: Disconnect Other Connected Controllers

There can be a maximum of eight Xbox controllers connected to a console simultaneously. Any extra controller will be unable to function. In such a scenario, the extra controllers need to be disconnected. Choose the controller you want to remove, click the Xbox button on it, and select “Controller Off” option on the screen.

Solution 6: Use A USB Cable

In case none of the above techniques yield any result, there is the option of using a USB cable. Foregoing the wireless facility, you have to connect the controller to the console via the USB cable.

If it functions normally with the cable, it means there is some problem with the controller or console which is affecting wireless connectivity. Using Xbox without a wireless facility is certainly inconvenient. Nevertheless, using the USB cable, for the time being, is an economically viable option than buying a new controller.

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Conclusion

Thus, some of the simple techniques to fix Xbox One Controller not Connecting have been discussed. Usually, the issue may not be serious, and simple hacks like moving closer to the console or removing obstructions may suffice. Often the issue might be as simple as just a case of dead batteries. Developers have built Xbox One controllers to shut down after 15 minutes of inactivity.

It helps in saving battery. If you haven’t used it for 15 minutes or more, it may not be any problem as you just have to switch it back on. However, if none of the solutions work, the problem may be more serious. Buying a new console or controller is the last resort. You may also consult a technician. In most cases of connectivity issues, however, any of the above solutions should work.