How to Use the GameSir Pocket Taco

Contents

How to Use the GameSir Pocket Taco

The best retro handheld alternative

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

Getting Started

Controller Layout

1Basic Operation

Status description
Power On Pull the controller open, or press and hold the Home button for 3 seconds while closed to power on.
Power Off Close the controller for 5 seconds, or press and hold the Home button for 5 seconds while powered on to power off.
Standby The controller will automatically power off if there is no operation for 10 minutes while connected.
Charging The controller can be charged via the data cable. When charging while powered off, the indicator will show the charging progress with a breathing light effect.
Battery Level The current battery level is indicated by the number of indicator lights.
Check Mode Press and hold the M button to check the current mode of the controller via the indicator light pattern.

2Connection Status

Status Indicator Description
Connected Solid The device is successfully connected.
Pairing Flash Rapidly In pairing status, it can be discovered and connected by a new device.
Reconnecting Flash Slowly In reconnecting status, it automatically connects to the last successfully connected device. Press and hold the M and Home buttons for 2 seconds to force the controller into pairing mode.

3Platform and Mode

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4Android Connection Tutorial

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5Switch Connection Tutorial

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6G-Touch Mode Connection Tutorial

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7Other Devices Connection Tutorial

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8Function Reset

Press and hold the Home and Start buttons for 3 seconds to restore the controller’s custom functions to their default settings.

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Advanced Tutorials

Turbo

  • While holding the M button, press A/B/X/Y/L1/R1/L2/R2 button to activate the Turbo function for that button.
  • Repeat the same operation to deactivate it.
  • Double-click the M button to clear all Turbo settings.

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D-Pad Diagonal Lock

  • Press and hold the M button and D-Pad Down for 5 seconds to enable the D-Pad Diagonal Lock function.
  • When enabled, the D-Pad will disable diagonal input.
  • Press and hold the M button and D-Pad Down for 5 seconds again to disable the D-Pad Diagonal Lock function.

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Layout Switching

Press and hold the M and B buttons for 2 seconds to swap button values of A-B and X-Y.

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Shoulder Button Function Switching

Press and hold the M button and L2 for 5 seconds to swap the functions of L1 and L2.

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Press and hold the M button and R2 for 5 seconds to swap the functions of R1 and R2.

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Hair Trigger Mode

D-Pad and Stick Function Switching

Press and hold the M button and D-Pad Left for 5 seconds to switch the D-Pad function to Left Stick function.

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Press and hold the M button and D-Pad Right for 5 seconds to switch the D-Pad function to Right Stick function.

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Press and hold the M button and D-Pad Up for 5 seconds, or repeat the D-pad switching combination, to restore the D-pad to its original function.

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FAQ

Frequently Asked Pre-sale Questions

1.What platforms does it support?

It’s compatible with Android and other supported devices.

2.Is it a wireless controller?

Yes, it uses a Bluetooth connection for wireless gameplay.

3.What is the supported phone thickness range for the Pocket Taco?

The Pocket Taco is optimized for phones with a thickness of 5.6-11 mm, providing the most secure and stable grip within this range. Phones thicker than 11 mm can still be used, but grip stability may be reduced. For best results, we recommend using thicker phones in relatively stationary scenarios.

4.Does it support software customization?

Yes. The Pocket Taco supports software customization through the GameSir app. You can switch the ABXY layout, toggle keyboard mode, remap button values, enable D-pad diagonal lock, swap D-pad and stick functions, adjust the auto-sleep interval, switch trigger and bumper functions, and enjoy full G-Touch and V-Touch support. Some settings can also be adjusted via on-the-fly button combinations, ensuring seamless adjustments during gameplay.

5.Does it require charging to use?

Yes. The Pocket Taco is powered by a built-in 600 mAh battery and requires charging for use.

6.Will it damage my phone?

No. The clamp area is equipped with soft silicone pads to protect your phone from scratches and damage while keeping it securely in place during gameplay.

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 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

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.

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