Xbox controller doesn't show up on Bluetooth list nor in Xbox Accessories app.

izzy 0 Reputation points
2026-09-12T21:19:17.29+00:00

Hello!

I'm trying to connect an Xbox-controller to my Windows 11 home PC. It's a desktop PC. When turning the controller on, and entering pair mode (rapid flickering lights on the Xbox-logo), it won't show up on my list of available Bluetooth devices to connect.

I've also used a USB-MicroUSB cable to directly connect the controller to my motherboard, but the controller doesn't show up in the Xbox Accessories app. Therefore I cannot check if the controller needs any driver updates.

The controller, which I've borrowed from my brother, works perfectly fine on his Xbox. Is it possible that there's something blocking it from connecting to a new device, since it's previously been used on his Xbox?

Info: It is an Xbox one-controller, I am using Windows 11 home, all updates for my PC are completed.

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Devices and drivers
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  1. Kai-H 26,580 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff Moderator
    2026-09-13T08:39:56+00:00

    Hi, izzy

    The previous Xbox pairing does not lock the controller to that console. Since Windows detects nothing over USB either, the first thing to rule out is the cable, as many Micro-USB cables provide power only and cannot transfer data.

    Here are some suggestions you can try:

    Try a different known data-capable Micro-USB cable, ideally one previously used for transferring files from a phone or another device. Connect it directly to a rear motherboard USB port. Xbox Support confirms that the cable must support data transfer. Xbox controller connection guide

    While connecting it, watch Device Manager. If the list does not refresh and no unknown USB device appears, test the same controller and cable on another PC. This separates a controller USB-port problem from a Windows problem.

    Since the controller works on your brother’s Xbox, reconnect it there, open Xbox Accessories, and check for a controller firmware update. After updating, fully power off the controller, remove its batteries for about 30 seconds, and test it again on the PC.

    If USB works with another cable but Bluetooth still does not, it is recommended that you use the official Xbox Wireless Adapter for Windows. It uses Xbox Wireless rather than Bluetooth and supports Windows 11. Wireless Adapter setup

    If it also fails over a known-good data cable on another PC, the controller’s Micro-USB data connection may be damaged even though it still works wirelessly with the Xbox.

    Thank you for your patience in reading, I hope this information has been helpful to you. 

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  2. izzy 0 Reputation points
    2026-09-12T21:30:06.4766667+00:00

    These are the steps I followed based off of the AI answer:
    Step 1-3. Basic stuff (make sure airplane mode isn't on, turn Bluetooth on and off again etc.)
    Step 4. I cannot find the "Bluetooth devices discovery" option in my Bluetooth settings.
    Step 6. There aren't any Bluetooth 3.0 devices closeby.
    Step 7. I've ran the Bluetooth troubleshooter, but to no avail.
    Step 8. My Bluetooth adapter is fully updated.
    Step 9. My Bluetooth adapter has been uninstalled and reinstalled.
    Step 10. No controllers have been paired with this PC before.

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