How to Use the GameSir G8 Plus

Contents

How to Use the GameSir G8 Plus

The most premium mobile controller for Bluetooth connection.

Product Overview

Key Features

  • • Console-grade controller quality
  • • Anti-drift Hall Effect sticks
  • • Precision-tuned Hall Effect analog triggers
  • • Max compatible length 215mm

Tech Specs

  • • Working Platform: Switch, Mobile Devices, PC
  • • Connection: TBluetooth for mobile devices, Wired and Wireless Dongle for PC
  • • Weight: 314 g
  • • Supported Software: GameSir app

System Requirements

Android

Android 8.0 or above Bluetooth

Switch

Switch/Switch 2 Bluetooth

Windows

Windows 10/11 Wired

Getting Started

Controller Layout

1Power On/Off

  • Long press Home button for 1 second to power on.
  • Long press Home button for 5 seconds to power off.

Extending the controller automatically powers on. Folding it automatically powers off (except in G-Touch mode).

2Connection Status

The Home indicator shows the current connection status of the controller.

Status Indicator Description
Pairing Flashing Controller is discoverable and ready to pair.
Connected Solid Successfully connected.
Reconnecting Breathing Attempting to reconnect to previously paired devices.

3Platform and Mode

Switch the controller mode based on your target platform.

Mode Indicator Color Platform
Android Mode Yellow Android
Other Devices Mode Blue Android / Other Devices Mode
Switch Mode Red Switch / Other Devices Mode
G-Touch Mode Cyan GameSir App

4Android Connection Tutorial

Bluetooth Connection

  1. Switch to Android mode, then long press Home for 1 second to power on.
  2. Open Bluetooth settings on your phone, find "GameSir G8 Plus" and tap to connect.
  3. The indicator will turn solid yellow when connected.
  • lf the connection is unsuccessful, press and hold Pairing Button re-enter pairing status.

5Other Devices Connection Tutorial

Bluetooth Connection

  1. Switch to Other Devices mode, then long press Home for 1 second to power on.
  2. Open Bluetooth settings on your Devices, find "GameSir G8 Plus" and tap to connect.
  3. The indicator will turn solid blue when connected.
  • lf the connection is unsuccessful, press and hold Pairing Button re-enter pairing status.

6G-Touch Mode Connection Tutorial

Bluetooth Connection (G-Touch Mode)

  1. Switch to G-Touch mode, then long press Home for 1 second to power on.
  2. Open the GameSir App and follow the on-screen instructions to connect.
  3. The indicator will turn solid cyan when connected.
  • lf the connection is unsuccessful, press and hold Pairing Button re-enter pairing status.

7Switch Connection Tutorial

Bluetooth Connection

  1. Switch to Switch mode, then long press Home for 1 second to power on.
  2. On your Switch, go to Controllers > Change Grip/Order and pair the controller.
  3. The indicator will turn solid red when connected.
  • lf the connection is unsuccessful, press and hold Pairing Button re-enter pairing status.

8Wired Connection Tutorial

Wired Connection

  1. Connect the controller to your device using a USB-C cable.
  2. The controller will automatically power on and connect.

Note: For XBOX/Switch/Other Devices Mod switching in wired mode, refer to the mode switch on the controller.

9Charging

When extended, only the right battery charges via Type-C. When folded, both left and right batteries charge simultaneously.

10Calibration

Stick & Trigger Calibration

  1. Connect your phone to the controller. Hold the "-"(View Button) + "+"(Menu Button) + Logo button for 2s until the Home Indicatorand Mode Indicator blink white slowly, indicating that the calibration mode is entered.
  2. In calibration mode, follow below steps to complete calibration:
    • a) Rotate the sticks at their maximum angles 3 times and let them return to the initial position naturally.
    • b) Press the triggers to their maximum travel 3 times and let them return to their initial position naturally.
  3. Press o o to complete and exit the calibration mode.
  • Calibration should be kept at a constant speed and gently operated to avoid errors whilecollecting data.

If the sticks and triggers can be used normally, please do not calibrate.*

Gyro Calibration

  1. Place the controller horizontally on a flat surface, then hold the Capture Button + M Buttonfor 3s seconds.
  2. At this point, the Logo Button will flash red and blue alternately.
  3. The home button will return to the mode color to indicate the calibration is complete.

11Controller Reset

  1. To reset the G8+ to its default settings, hold down the Home and Menu keys simultaneously for 3 seconds. This function requires the phone to be connected to a Wi-Fi network. All settings will be restored to their factory defaults after the reset.

  2. If you hold down the View + Menu + M keys for 3 seconds, all data will be cleared, and you’ll need to pair the device again. (This operation doesn’t require connecting to a phone.)

Advanced Tutorials

Extra Button Mapping

Customize button mapping via the M button combinations or through the GameSir App.

Volume Adjustment

Home + D-pad Up/Down (Android and Switch mode only)

Enable / Disable Hair Trigger Mode

Hold the M + LT / RT for 2s

Swap Button Value of A-B and X-Y

M + A (long press 2 seconds) to swap A↔B and X↔Y values.

Hair Trigger Mode

Enable / Disable Turbo Function

M + Target Button to toggle Turbo. Four speed levels: 8Hz / 12Hz / 20Hz / Off

Vibration Intensity

M + D-pad Up/Down 5 intensity levels.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Pre-sale Questions

What devices does the G8 Plus support?

Switch, iOS, Android (phones 120-215mm), and PC.

Does the G8 Plus use wired or wireless?

Bluetooth for mobile devices. Wired or wireless adapter for PC.

Is the latency low?

Bluetooth 5.3. Switch <0.013s, iOS/Android <0.026s.

Does it have a battery?

1000mAh total (500mAh left + 500mAh right).

What are the stick features?

Hall Effect sticks, anti-drift technology.

Does it have analog triggers?

Yes, precision Hall Effect analog triggers.

Does it have vibration motors?

Yes, asymmetric grip vibration.

Is it compatible with phone cases?

Yes, in Bluetooth mode the phone case can remain on.

Can I change button values and layout?

M+A to swap AB/XY. Full remapping via app. Panels, stick caps, and face buttons are detachable.

What are the differences between G8+ and G8?

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Frequently Asked Product Usage Questions

How to enable touch mapping on Android phone/G-touch/V-touch tutuorial?

For Android users, enable the mapping function in the game list of the GameSir World app by following the G-Touch tutorial shown in the screenshot: https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2241/8433/files/425a96df4bff7114defc1670fd28eb2b.png?v=1739350140

Once mapping is enabled, launch your game through the app. An in-game floating controller icon will appear on the screen: https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2241/8433/files/92293cb8ae788980fcb6b0e048f236b1.png?v=1739350148

If you encounter issues activating V-Touch mode, refer to the official tutorial video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vqP2za4QfUY

Full PC activation guide for V-Touch: https://gamesir.com/pages/gamesir-activation-tutorial?_pos=1&_sid=a0bf37aff&_ss=r

Notes: Touch Mapping functions (G-Touch / V-Touch) are unavailable on iOS devices including iPhone and iPad due to system restrictions. However, most natively controller-supported iOS titles such as Genshin Impact support plug-and-play without extra mapping activation. Compared with Android, iOS features broader native controller compatibility across most mobile games.

Why don’t the buttons or joystick work when an iOS device is connected to G8+/G8/X5 Lite/X5S/X3 Pro/X2S/G8+MFI?

This issue occurs because AssistiveTouch is enabled on your iPhone.

  1. Tap the Settings icon on the iPhone home screen to open the Settings menu.
  2. Tap General, then select Accessibility.
  3. Tap AssistiveTouch.
  4. Toggle the switch from On to Off to disable the AssistiveTouch feature.

Why my G8+/G8/G8+MFI/X5S/X5 Lite/X3 Pro/X2S 's pass-through charging doesn't work on my phones?

  1. Confirm that the OTG function is enabled in your phone settings (common for Xiaomi, OPPO, VIVO, Realme and iQOO devices).

  2. Try adjusting the connection sequence of the charging cable and the controller.

  3. Use a charger compliant with the standard PD protocol (maximum 9 V / 3 A) or replace your cable.

  4. If none of the above steps resolve the issue, incompatibility with the PD protocol is highly probable.

The controller supports a maximum input of 9 V / 3 A. Many mainstream mobile phones support pass-through charging.

Since the charger supplies power to the phone via the controller, both the phone and charger must support PD 2.0 or newer. The controller can negotiate a maximum power profile of 9 V / 3 A with the charger and phone. The actual charging power delivered to the phone is subject to the restrictions imposed by the phone’s system.

How to close or lower the Indicator light of X5S/X5 Lite/G8/G8+/G8+MFI/X3 Pro?

Hold the M button + Menu (+) button for 5 seconds to turn off or dim the lighting.

Why View button has a delay when pressing it on iPhone with my G8+/X5S?

This issue is triggered by iOS’s Shared Gestures function for game controllers.

To disable Shared Gestures and prevent unintended screenshots when using your controller with iPhone or iPad, follow the steps below:

  1. Open the Settings menu on your iPhone or iPad.
  2. Navigate to General > Game Controller > Default Controls.
  3. Tap the name of your connected controller.
  4. Scroll down to locate Shared Gestures and turn off the screenshot function.

I can't register the GameSir APP, I can't receive verification code in my email.

If you are using a Gmail account for login, try switching to an alternative email address if available.

Important reminder: An account is only required for cloud backup of screen mappings. Login is not mandatory if you encounter persistent login difficulties.

I can't touch the screen and use the controller simultaneously. For example: If im moving the left joystick to move forward and then use my right thumb in the right side of the screen to aim i stop moving forward. I can only use one at a time.

If you cannot activate screen touch and controller input simultaneously, confirm that you are using V-Touch Mode and turn on Intensive Mapping.

  1. Tap the floating red GameSir icon on your screen.
  2. Go to Settings > General Settings.
  3. Enable Intensive Mapping.

Why do I feel that the mapping on HID/G-Touch mode is laggy/inconsistent?

HID Mode (the foundation of G-Touch) has inherent limitations imposed by its connection protocol. As a result, its performance is marginally inferior to other modes, and this behavior is normal. If this leads to in-game issues, we recommend switching to V-Touch mapping enabled.

I'm an iPhone (iOS) user and I can't access games in GameSir app. When I go to the "Game" menu, all I get is a message saying "Sorry, this function is not supported." How do I play my games? What about touch mapping?

For iPhone and iOS users: Apple restricted custom mapping features starting from iOS 13.4. Accordingly, the game library and mapping functions are no longer supported. When gaming on iOS, pair the controller following the recommended procedure and launch your game directly without opening the GameSir app. The GameSir app can still be used solely for firmware updates and controller configuration adjustments.

I've ran into issues after the firmware upgrade, how do I perform a firmware downgrade?

To roll back firmware: Click the Other Version link on the firmware update page and select the previous stable firmware version.

Detailed operation path within the GameSir app:

  1. On the main page, tap the controller icon.
  2. Go to Firmware Upgrade > Other Version.
  3. Choose your target firmware version.

Why does the iOS version of the GameSir mobile app support less controllers than the Android one?

iOS imposes specific compatibility requirements. Controllers require either an MFi license or Bluetooth connectivity to achieve full functionality. Most GameSir controllers do not carry MFi certification and therefore lack full access under iOS. The X3 Pro serves as an exception. As a premium model, it supports Bluetooth connection to enable complete compatibility with iOS.

My controller is connected via dongle or cable and on the Switch mode, but it is not working. What do I do?

Enable Pro Controller Wired Communication following the steps below:

  1. Open System Settings from the HOME Menu
  2. Navigate to Controllers and Sensors
  3. Select Pro Controller Wired Communication
  4. Toggle the option to On

What is G-Touch? How to map buttons with Android phone/tablet?

G-Touch Technology

G-Touch supports mapping configuration without persistent auxiliary apps. You can connect and play mobile games directly after setup!

Connecting gaming peripherals to smart devices often involves complicated operations due to system limitations, resulting in poor user experience. GameSir has continuously developed and upgraded technologies to resolve such troubles. You can understand G-Touch as follows: G-Touch direct-connect technology simulates a virtual touch peripheral on your phone or tablet. Commands sent by the GameSir controller are identified as native system input signals, which means all controller operations act as direct screen touches.

Controller operation = physical touch operation (no overlay mapping)

In this mode, the GameSir controller runs in an invisible state on the device. The advantages are listed below:

  1. No additional downloads required
  2. No activation steps
  3. No secondary applications needed
  4. No jailbreak or root access required
  5. No cloud adaptation packages, and more

G-Touch direct-connect technology works with Android devices for the following controllers released after 2023: G8 Galileo / G8+, X3 Pro, X2 Bluetooth / Type-C, X2s Bluetooth / Type-C, G4 PRO Wireless Controller, and more.

Notes: Apple blocks third-party mapping functions. Therefore, G-Touch cannot be used on iPhones and iPads. iOS devices only support games with native controller support. If you need controller compatibility for a game, please reach out to the game developer.

G-Touch activation & button mapping tutorial for Android phones and tablets: https://youtu.be/aZ-rVEQDcYc?si=M6F6co_M5GNS8RZM

I'm having issues with the G8+ Gyro, what do I do?

Place the controller horizontally on a flat, stable surface. Hold the M button + Capture button until the Home indicator flashes red and blue. Calibration is finished once the Home indicator reverts to its original color.

What's the difference between G-Touch and V-Touch?

G-Touch vs V-Touch Explanation In short, G-Touch directly transmits touch signals to the screen. When mapped, it behaves identically to physical finger contact. V-Touch is a system-level virtual simulation of screen touches.

We recommend using G-Touch whenever available for broader game compatibility.

How do I activate V-touch (Software Mapping) on Android?

V-Touch Mapping Activation Guide for GameSir X4 Aileron Video walkthrough: https://youtu.be/vqP2za4QfUY?t=38

Step-by-Step Text Instructions

  1. Open the GameSir World app and select your target game. Below the game title, a mode selection bar will display one of three options: Native (HID Mode), Software Mapping (V-Touch), or Hardware Mapping (G-Touch).
  2. Tap the selection bar and choose Software Mapping (V-Touch).
  3. Enable Developer Options on your phone. The exact path differs by device, but the standard workflow is: Phone Settings > About Device > tap the build number seven times. Developer Options will then appear at the bottom of the Settings menu.
  4. Navigate to Developer Options and enable USB Debugging. If your device includes the USB Debugging (Security Settings) toggle, enable it as well.
  5. Select your preferred V-Touch activation method:
    • Wireless Activation: Enable Wireless Debugging within the Developer Options menu.
    • PC Activation: Use the official GameSir PC Activation Tool.
  6. If you select Wireless Activation: You will be redirected to the Wireless Debugging page. Tap the Wireless Debugging header to open its submenu, then select Pair device with pairing code. Enter the displayed 6-digit pairing code into the GameSir World app notification prompt and wait for activation to complete.
  7. Once activation finishes, launch the game through the GameSir World app — V-Touch mapping will now be active.

Important Note

Software Mapping (V-Touch) requires activation via either a PC tool or Wireless Debugging on a shared Wi-Fi network; it cannot function without completing one of these two activation workflows.

I'm trying to set up touch mapping, but it's confusing?

Overview of Available Functions

  1. Recommended Solution Access preset configurations created and shared by other users. You may also share your custom setups after logging into the GameSir app.

  2. Add Button Map the joysticks, individual buttons, or even multi-button combinations.

  3. Additional Functionality Inside the layout editor, select any mapped element. Tap the ⚙️ icon to assign extra features to that binding.

  4. Click Mode

  • Normal: Simulates a single tap on the screen
  • Separated press & release: Triggers a tap when you press the button and another when you release it
  • DownClick: Simulates an instant touch and lift action
  1. Turbo Mode Generates rapid repeated screen taps. The turbo speed can be adjusted.

  2. Skill Wheel Mode Link the assigned button to the left or right joystick (or both) to operate a skill wheel.

  3. Cast Cancel Mode Designed for MOBA games that support drag-to-cast cancellation. Map this function to the cancel zone to interrupt attacks or skills.

  4. One-button Macro Trigger a sequence of timed screen taps automatically. Ideal for executing high-DPS combos in gacha games.

  5. Gesture Mode Record touch inputs, swipes and other motions, then bind the recorded gesture to a controller button. The placement of the virtual button does not impact gesture playback.

  6. Cloned Mode Duplicates the mapped function. Both outputs activate simultaneously on button press or release.

  7. Sliding Mode Set directional sliding gestures with customizable movement speed; looping is supported.

  8. Click Range Mode Configure a button to cover and activate a broad region instead of a single small spot on screen.

  9. More Settings

  • Smart Touch: Simulates imprecise touches within the mapped button area
  • Overlay transparency adjustment for virtual mapping controls

How do I map Generic HID Controllers on Steam? (Such as G7 Pro via Bluetooth)

Configure Generic Controller in Steam

  1. Launch Steam. Navigate to Steam > Settings > Controller > General Controller Settings.
  2. Tick Enable Steam Input for Generic Gamepads, then click Begin Setup.

Important tip: When prompted to press the Home/Guide button and Share/Capture button during device input setup, skip these prompts by pressing the A button.

Why can't I have Bluetooth Xinput in the latest GameSir Controllers?

Microsoft imposes certain restrictions, so XInput functionality is unavailable via Bluetooth connection.

For PC gaming, we recommend using the official USB wireless receiver included with the controller. This supports wireless XInput mode while maintaining low latency. If you prefer to stay in Bluetooth Mode, launch your games through Steam to utilize Steam’s built-in controller mapping features.

Which controllers have Gyroscopes?

Controllers equipped with a gyroscope are listed below:

  1. Xbox Controllers (Gyro function only available on PC): G7 Pro, G7 Pro Wuchang, G7 Pro Zenless Zone Zero, Tarantula Pro Xbox, T7 Pro Sugar Whirl.

  2. PC Controllers: SuperNova, Cyclone 2, Tarantula Pro, Tarantula Pro 8K, Nova, G7 Pro 8K.

  3. Mobile Controllers: G8+, X5S, X3 Pro, G8+ MFi (Android only)

Can i buy replacement part?

We do not sell separate spare parts such as controller internal components, replacement buttons, USB ports, standalone receivers, or other internal repair parts. All original bundled accessories included with controllers are not available for individual purchase.

These accessories are manufactured to be used with the controller and are not sold separately.

Currently, the only items sold separately are:

1.Universal data cable,

2.Faceplate for the G7 series, Faceplate for Supernova, Carrying case for the G7 Pro,

3.Detachable Joystick Caps For G7 Pro & Cyclone 2

4.Anti-friction rings,

5.Thumb grip caps,

6.Charger for nova/nova 2 lite, Charger for cyclone 2,Cooler for X5 Lite ,Dongle for nova(Not for nova 1/2 lite)

7.Dongle compatible with the following controllers: Nova (HD), SuperNova, T3S, Tarantula, Cyclone, Cyclone Pro, X5s, G8+.(It Will not work with Cyclone 2, T4, T4 Pro, T4 Pro SE, G7 Pro, Nova Lite, and Nova Lite 2.)

You can view our separately sold accessories here: https://gamesir.com/collections/gamesir-accessories

Do your controllers have overcharging protection? Will the battery stop charging once it's fully charged to avoid drained battery and safety concerns? does "playing and leave it on the dock" habit will make the battery lifespan shorter?

No worries, all GameSir controllers are equipped with overcharging protection, whether used with a charging dock or not. Charging will automatically stop once the controller reaches full battery. Normally, the indicator light turns off upon full charge.

I'm having stick and trigger issues with my X5 Lite/X5S/G8/G8+/G8+MFI. What do I do?

  1. Connect your phone to the controller. Hold the View button + Menu button + Home button for 2 seconds. The Home indicator and Mode indicator will flash white slowly, confirming the controller has entered calibration mode.

  2. Complete calibration within the mode following these steps: a) Rotate both joysticks fully to their maximum range three times, then let them return to the center position naturally. b) Pull both triggers all the way to maximum travel three times, then release them to return to the original position naturally.

  3. Press the A button to save settings and exit calibration mode.

Notes:

  1. Operate gently with steady speed during calibration to prevent inaccurate data sampling.
  2. Calibration is unnecessary if the joysticks and triggers function normally.

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