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Why Your PS4 Controller Light Is Pink

The PlayStation 4 controller comes jam-packed with all kinds of innovative features. One striking addition to the controller is the light indicator bar. It can flash with all kinds of colors that signify everything from the controller status to in-game information. But what does the mysterious pink light mean?

The pink light on the PS4 controller most likely indicates the fourth player. While this is true for most cases, some games may utilize the pink light in another way. The changing colors normally help identify players and controllers, though, and pink shouldn’t signal an issue.

Ready to learn more about the PS4 controller? We’ve got all the information you need to familiarize yourself with the controller and its functions. We’ll also explore some care tips and troubleshooting techniques to get you ready to face any problems that might arise.

What Are the Functions of a PS4 Controller?

Game

While game controllers are an essential part of any console, they often get overlooked. In reality, these small handheld devices do quite a lot for your gaming experience. Of course, there are the obvious functions, but others might surprise you.

The main function of the PS4 controller (on Amazon) is to connect you to the gaming console. Through a system of buttons and joysticks, you can then control the parameters and mechanisms in-game. This gives the player a greater level of control.

Game controllers are specifically designed to help you make the most out of your game. Instead of having to work around other physical limitations, buttons and other controls are easily accessed without the need to look or take your attention off the game.

In fact, even gamers who like using computers tend to connect game controllers like the PS4’s to their desktops or laptops. It simply provides better control.

The PS4 controller, in particular, also comes with some special functions. If you pop open the plastic, you’ll see a whole lot of interesting tech. From DualShock technology to gyroscopes, everything helps add to the gaming experience.

With the various vibrations and motion sensors, the PS4 controller can do a lot. But it’s also up to game developers to make the most out of these extra features, so always keep that in mind.

The Meaning of Every Color of Light on Your PS4

Part of what makes the PS4 controller so unique is the indicator light strip. While lights and game controllers are certainly nothing new, Sony takes this feature to another level. Here’s some colors on the ps4 controller are used to indicate player’s status.

First, it’s much more than just one or two colors. You get a rainbow! Next, it’s not just about indication. The light strip on the PS4 changes depending on the game you’re playing. Here’s what you need to know:

  1. Blue light — Player 1
  2. Red light — Player 2
  3. Green light — Player 3
  4. Pink light — Player 4
  5. White light — Controller disconnected
  6. Other colors — Depends on the game and functionality

A yellow light, for instance, might mean that your controller isn’t charging correctly. It could also mean you’re a support player in a game. It all depends on what you are doing.

Some games play with the lighting system a lot. GTA 5, for instance, uses colors to signify in-game characters. The indicator light also flashes red and blue when police are involved in the game.

How to Properly Care for Your PS4 Controllers

Joysticks for game consoles motion controller

Part of what helps keep your PS4 up and running for years is proper care. While it’s easy to forget about your controller, if you fail to maintain it, it can mean serious problems down the road. In most cases, a simple routine can help you make the most out of your gaming time.

First, let’s talk about keeping things clean. While most of the controller components are underneath the plastic, that doesn’t mean you’re off the hook.

Make sure to clean around the buttons and joysticks, which is where a lot of grime and skin build-up occurs. Use a small Q-tip and maybe a mild cleaning solution or rubbing alcohol (on Amazon). Be sure to keep everything as dry as you can. You can put some rubbing alcohol directly on a microfiber cloth (also on Amazon) to wipe the device down, which controls the amount of liquid in play-always a good thing with electronics!

Another area to pay attention to is the charging port. This area can easily get clogged with all kinds of muck. Again, use a Q-tip to remove any dirt or grim. Too much dirt can lead to charging problems if not taken care of regularly.

Next, you’ll want to keep everything charged. Proper charging is a great way to maintain your battery and ensure your unit lasts. Be careful not to leave your controllers on and unattended while charging.

Proper charging also means not allowing your unit to stay on the charger for too long. Doing so can cause a problem called ghost charging, which leads to faster battery degradation.

Signs Your PS4 or Controller Need Attention

PS4s are fairly reliable gaming consoles. They’re built to last quite a while. Of course, the condition of your console will depend on how well you take care of it, and you should always be aware of troubling signs that you might need to do some maintenance.

What should you be on the lookout for? If your PS4 is having trouble playing games or connecting, or if you’re seeing a white indicator light or blinking lights, it could mean you have an issue.

While the issues range from software problems to hardware issues, sometimes a bit of easy troubleshooting can fix things.

If you’re having an issue with your console, the first thing you might want to do is reset it. To do this, follow these steps:

  1. Turn off your PS4.
  2. Unplug the power cord.
  3. Wait 5 minutes.
  4. Plug the power cord back in.
  5. Turn on your PS4.
  6. Initialize PS4 using the controller.

Resetting your console is always an easy fix for many common problems. If issues persist, you should then try a few other methods to try and fix the problem. This might include starting your console in safe mode or, if the problem seems serious, sending your unit in for repairs.

If you’re having issues with your controller, you can reset it separately. Here is what you need to do:

  1. Find the reset button on your controller. It should be located near the L2 shoulder button. It will look like a small hole.
  2. Use a SIM card tool, or another small thin object, to click the button.
  3. Hold down the reset button for at least 10 seconds.
  4. Turn on your controller and reconnect it.