Why is My Xbox One Controller Flashing and not Connecting- Quick Fixes

It is not rocket science to fix a malfunctioning Xbox One controller. You can easily cure a controller that is flashing but not connecting.

You should solve such minor issues at home. Because each time you cannot go to a technician. Especially, when you are in a mood to play. So, learn the simple tricks with me.

Table of Contents

The Reasons I Diagnosed for a Flashing Xbox One

Before applying the remedies, we should know the reasons behind the flashing issue.

While working with my cousin’s Xbox One controller, I figured out some major causes for the connection issue. Other users also confirmed the same reasons. So, here is a brief overview;

The controller is paired to another device.
The battery is draining or weak.
You are not following the correct pairing method.
Devices are out of range and cannot detect each other.
Other devices or peripherals are interfering.
The software of the device needs to be updated.

Troubleshoot Xbox One Controller Flashing But not Connecting

So, you know the reasons. Now, it is time to find the solutions. Following are the best tricks I found effective in fixing a troubling controller.

1. Perform the Diagnostic Test

I am going to tell you a very effective tip. It can diagnose the problematic device. So, connect your Xbox One controller to some other console or computer.

If it connects and plays fine, your console may be faulty. Now, connect a different controller to your console. If the console does not pose any issue, check your controller again.

In this way, you can figure out which of the gadgets is problematic. However, if both work fine with other devices, there is a compatibility issue.

Restart, reboot, and reconnect twice or thrice. This hack helps remove the software glitches and pairing issues.

2. Keep Gadgets within Range

One immediate reason is that the controller and the console are out of range. Therefore, it is flashing but fails to connect. The manufacturer says that the devices should be within 19-28 feet.

So, get closer to your console. Decrease the distance further if your console is in a cabinet.

Moreover, remove anything between both devices such as a laptop, smartphone, metal object, etc. Because these wireless devices and objects can interfere with the connectivity.

3. Disconnect Other Devices

Another cause is that your controller is already paired to another console. You may have more than one console in your home.

Moreover, your console is already paired with 8 other Xbox One controllers. You should know that an Xbox console cannot be connected to more than 8 controllers.

So, disconnect extra devices and pair them again. Open the “Settings” on your console. Go to “Devices & Connections” and then “Accessories”.

Check here the number of connected controllers. Moreover, unplug all the peripherals such as the microphone, speakers, headphones, keyboard, mouse, etc. Once, the connection establishes, you can reconnect these devices.

4. Re-Connect the Controller and the Console

You may have recently paired the controller with some other console or Bluetooth device. In this case, you have to get the connection back.

Press the pairing button twice to connect it again. Further, try pairing the devices again;

On your Xbox One console, press the pairing button and release it.
Immediately, hold down the pairing button on your controller.
It will flash rapidly. After a few moments, a solid light will glow. This indicates a successful pairing.

5. Recharge the Controller

A low battery can be the reason your controller is flashing. So, you have to charge it fully. There are a number of ways to charge the device.

For example, you can use a “Play & Charge Kit”. Further, connect a micro USB cable to the wall power outlet or a computer.

A rechargeable battery pack is also a good option. Lastly, standard AA batteries are great if you want a replaceable solution.

However, sometimes, it continues flashing even after charging. In this case, remove the batteries, wait for 30 seconds, and put them back again.

6. Connect via USB

If nothing works, try connecting via the USB cable. You should use the original micro USB cable that was provided with your console.

Using an incompatible cable will not establish the connection. Simply plug the cable into both devices. Use one of the two ports at the front of the console.

7. Restart Both Gadgets

Restarting works in a number of situations. First, restart your controller;

Press and hold the Xbox button for 5-10 seconds or until it turns OFF.
Wait for 30-60 seconds.
Now, press the same button again to turn ON the controller.

To restart your Xbox One console;

Press and hold the “Power” button for 10 seconds.
Let it shut down completely.
After a few minutes, press the power button again.
Wait for the console to reload and pair the controller again.

8. Check for Firmware Update

Firmware updates are necessary for smooth functioning. So, you should check them on both devices.

Update Xbox One Controller

Download the “Xbox Accessories” app on your computer.
Connect the controller to the computer. Either use a compatible USB cable or the “Xbox Wireless Adapter for Windows”.
Launch the app, it will show the message “Update Required”.
Follow the on-screen instructions to install the latest update.

Update Xbox One Console

Connect the console to reliable internet.
Press the “Xbox” button to open the “Guide”.
Choose “Profile & System” and then “Settings”.
Next, click on “System” then “Updates”.
Click the “Console Update Available” button and proceed further.

9. Factory Reset Your Console

If the diagnostic test confirms that your console is creating the problem, try a factory reset. But, remember it will remove all the data and games.

So, it is better to transfer the games into a USB flash drive. A factory reset is the last resort. However, it is time-consuming as well as risky.

Because you have to transfer and recover the data. Some of the files can get corrupted and never recovered. Nevertheless, if you still want to try, here is the process;

On your One console, press the Xbox button to open the “Guide”.
Choose “Profile & System” and then “Settings”.
Next, choose “System” then “Console Info.”
Click the “Reset Console” option.
You will be shown 3 options, choose “Reset and remove everything”.
Let the factory reset complete and pair again.

Frequently Asked Questions Related to Xbox One

If you want to learn more, read the following queries. These are the most frequently asked questions by the users.

How to connect Xbox One controller to Switch without an adapter?

Practically, it is not possible to connect Xbox One controller to the Switch without any adapter. Because both gadgets come from different companies and use distinct software/systems. Hence, an adapter is necessary for making them compatible.

How to use Xbox One controller on Xbox 360 without CronusMAX?

Fortunately, you can use an Xbox One controller on Xbox 360. You do not necessarily need CronusMAX. Instead, connect the controller to the console using a USB cable. But, the cable should be compatible, original, and one that was given with your device. Another condition is that update firmware on your Xbox One controller before connecting.

How to connect the phone to Xbox One without Wifi?

I found no verified method to connect a smartphone to Xbox One without Wifi. However, there are some apps. A few users tried them and found them workable. You can also try the “Beta”, “Wireless Display”, and “Miracast-Wifi Display”. Download these apps from Xbox One play store.

Final Words

You must try all the solutions mentioned in this guide. I have personally tested them. Therefore, you can try each hack confidently.

Factory reset is the last option. Otherwise, you can go for Xbox customer support and consultation. The company can find out the root cause and can fix it permanently.

Hopefully, my guide helped you in this regard. Do not forget to tell which of the hacks worked for your Xbox One controller that was flashing but not connecting to the console.