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How to Use a Game Controller as a Mouse on Android

Android can remap some controller inputs, but mouse-pointer control requires a mapper. Here’s how to connect a gamepad, configure pointer actions, and check app compatibility and permissions.
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To move a mouse pointer with a game controller on Android, pair the controller and use a controller-to-mouse app that explicitly supports cursor movement and clicks. Android’s built-in controller settings can remap some buttons or joysticks, but they do not provide mouse-pointer emulation.

What you need to use a controller as a mouse

You need a controller Android can connect to and a mapper that turns its input into pointer movement and mouse or touch actions. Android recognizes supported controller input, but that does not mean every controller, app, or game can use it in the same way. Android 15’s compatibility definition requires implementations to map HID events to Android input-event constants; this platform requirement is not a guarantee that a particular mapper will work with every controller or target app. Android 15 Compatibility Definition

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Connect your controller

  1. For Bluetooth: Put the controller into pairing mode using its model-specific button combination. On Android, open Settings > Connected devices > Pair new device, then select the controller. Android’s controller setup guide
  2. For a wired connection: Connect the controller with a compatible cable. Whether a specific controller and device work together depends on their connection support.
  3. Check the controller in Android settings: Depending on the device and connection, look under System > Game controllers or Connected devices > [controller]. The available settings can include swapping button assignments or the left and right joysticks. These are remapping options, not a mouse cursor.

Choose a mapper that supports pointer movement

Android’s controller settings and a mouse mapper do different jobs. Use the built-in settings when you only want to change button or joystick assignments. For a pointer, choose an app whose current listing explicitly says it can move a cursor and perform mouse actions.

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Joystick Mouse Adapter 2

The Google Play listing for Joystick Mouse Adapter 2 says a controller joystick can move a mouse cursor, with controller inputs configured for clicks, swipes, and pinch-to-zoom gestures. Set the stick and buttons in the app for the actions you want, then test them in your intended app. The listing reported an update on September 10, 2026; features and screens can change.

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Gamepad mouse

The Gamepad mouse listing describes mouse emulation, custom button actions, and sensitivity settings. It says the app works only in X-input mode and requires Accessibility permission. Check whether your controller can use that mode before relying on the app. The listing reported an update on August 11, 2026; check its current compatibility details.

Configure the app and review Accessibility access

Joystick Mouse Adapter 2 states: “requires the Accessibility Permission to function.” Its listing says this permission lets the app observe touch, keyboard, and controller input; perform gestures such as clicks and swipes; and retrieve window content to provide context about what the pointer is clicking. That is broad access to device interaction and screen content. Read the app’s current permission explanation and privacy disclosures before enabling its Accessibility service, and grant access only if you are comfortable with the disclosed scope.

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After granting any required access, configure the joystick for pointer movement and assign buttons to the actions you need. App interfaces and controls may change, so use the current in-app instructions rather than assuming a particular menu name or layout.

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Test the pointer in the apps you intend to use

First try moving the cursor and clicking outside the target game or app. Then test the same controls in the intended app. Android controller support does not ensure that a mapper will behave identically across devices, Android versions, controller modes, or apps.

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A mouse pointer is also not the same as full gamepad-to-touch remapping. Joystick Mouse Adapter 2’s listing describes tap coordinates, while its virtual-gamepad features are described as in development. Do not assume that every touch-only game or interface can be fully controlled with a gamepad through the mapper.

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When Switch Access is a better fit

If your goal is to move through and select screen items using switches or configured keys, Android’s Switch Access may fit better. It scans items for selection; it is an accessibility navigation method, not a freely moving mouse cursor.

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Why controller support can vary

Android defines how compatible controller input is represented at the platform level, but the mapper and the app receiving input also matter. Android Developers’ game controller overview explains platform controller support. In practice, check the mapper’s stated requirements—such as X-input mode—and test the target app instead of assuming that a controller recognized by Android will work as a mouse everywhere.

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