How to Connect Xbox Series Controller to Nvidia Shield

Things to Consider

One important thing to note is whether the controller will be compatible with the app or game you want to use it with. It all depends on if the developer made it compatible with the controller.

The other thing to note is whether the button mapping will be correct or mixed up.

Pairing to Nvidia Shield

1. Press and hold the Xbox button on the controller until the controller turns on. If your Xbox console turns on just press and hold the Xbox button on the console and after a few seconds, it’ll turn off.
2. Then press and hold the sync button found on the top controller for about 3 seconds to activate Bluetooth pairing mode. You’ll know it’s in pairing mode when the Xbox button starts to flash.
3. On the Shield navigate to the cog icon near the top right of the screen (it’s the main Settings menu).
4. Scroll down to “Remotes & accessories” and select “Add accessory”. Note: You can ignore “Add Bluetooth accessories”, as noted it’s only to be used if you’re having pairing issues.
5. The Sheild will look for Bluetooth items, your controller will eventually appear as “Xbox Wireless Controller”.
6. You’re done! You can immediately start using the controller to navigate the menu as a quick test.

Note: that for me it failed during the first pair attempt and one the second try it worked fine. You might need to try more than once.