DS3Activator for macOS

A lightweight menu bar utility to automatically activate Sony DualShock 3 (PS3) controllers connected via USB on modern macOS.

Tested successfully on macOS Sequoia with an M4 MacBook Pro.

The Problem

On macOS Monterey (12.0) and later, the operating system recognizes a DualShock 3 controller plugged in via USB, but fails to send the specific activation command required for it to function correctly. This results in the controller being detected but not usable.

The Solution

DS3Activator runs in the background and solves this problem. It monitors USB connections:

1. Detects a connected DualShock 3 (by its Vendor ID 0x054C and Product ID 0x0268).
2. Automatically sends the necessary HID activation command.
3. Notifies you when the controller is connected and activated.

Your controller should then work as expected.

Features

• Automatic Activation: Fixes DS3 USB connectivity on Monterey+.
• Menu Bar App: Runs discreetly with quick access to settings.
• Notifications: Informs you of connection and activation status (configurable).
• Launch at Login: Option to start automatically with your Mac (configurable).
• Modern & Lightweight: Uses standard macOS frameworks. Recieves callbacks from IOKit to avoid polling, resulting in 0% CPU usage when not activating a controller.

Usage

1. Launch DS3Activator. Its controller icon will appear in your menu bar.
2. Plug in your DualShock 3 controller via USB.
3. You'll receive a notification confirming detection and activation.
4. Your controller is ready to use!

Requirements

• macOS Monterey (12.0) or later
• Sony DualShock 3 Controller
• USB Cable