Just Dance Decades of Hits Controller App Setup & Requirements
Learn how to set up the controller app, check system requirements, and get started with Just Dance: Decades of Hits on your console.
Published: Just Dance: Decades of Hits Wiki Editorial Team
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Understanding the Just Dance Decades of Hits Controller App Setup
Getting your smartphone connected to your console is the most crucial step before jumping into the choreography of Ubisoft's latest dance game. Because the game utilizes modern device tracking rather than traditional peripherals like the old Xbox Kinect bars, your mobile phone acts as your primary scoring tool. Whether you are prepping for a family game night or setting up a multi-player party session for up to six people, ensuring your phone meets the baseline technical requirements prevents frustrating disconnects mid-song.
According to developer details shared by Ubisoft creators, the setup process is designed to streamline freedom of movement across dozens of tracks spanning six distinct decades of music. Below, we break down everything you need to know about preparing your phone, understanding console compatibility, and optimizing your living room dance floor.
System Requirements for iOS and Android Devices
Before downloading any utilities, you must ensure your mobile device’s operating system is up to date. Running an older OS version can prevent the controller application from syncing smoothly with your gaming hardware.
iOS Devices: Requires iOS 14.4 or higher on compatible iPhones.
Android Devices: Requires Android 9 or higher.
Network Connection: Both your smartphone and your gaming console must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network during gameplay.
Account Syncing: A valid Ubisoft account is required to access online features, save dancer card customizations, and manage subscriptions.
Community reports and developer guidelines emphasize that while budget-friendly Android phones running Android 9 can handle the app, keeping your device fully charged is essential. Continuous motion tracking uses up battery life quickly, especially during extended workout sessions where you track burned calories.
Step-by-Step Connection Instructions
Download the App: Search for the free Just Dance Controller app on the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and install it on your smartphone.
Connect to Wi-Fi: Ensure your phone and your console (Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, or Xbox Series X|S) are operating on the same local wireless network.
Launch the Game: Open Just Dance: Decades of Hits on your console.
Pair Your Device: Follow the on-screen prompts within the game menu to link your mobile phone via the controller app. Hold the phone securely in your right hand while dancing to ensure accurate score tracking.
Once connected, you can customize your player profile, design multiple dancer cards, and jump straight into party mode or solo workout sessions.
Console-Specific Setup Details and Exceptions
How you use the controller app can vary slightly depending on your platform of choice. Understanding these nuances helps avoid compatibility confusion when playing locally with friends.
Nintendo Switch Setup
For Nintendo Switch players, the controller app is required if you intend to use the camera controller mode. Ensure your Joy-Cons or phone are securely held to prevent accidental slips during high-energy tracks.
PlayStation & Xbox Setup
On PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, the smartphone app is required to track your moves. No extra accessories or peripheral cameras are necessary, simplifying your living room setup compared to older generation console requirements.
Maximizing Your Experience with Just Dance Plus
Once your controller app is configured, you might want to expand your library beyond the 35 iconic songs included across six decades in the base game.
The Just Dance Plus streaming service grants access to additional songs from previous editions (ranging from Just Dance 2023 through 2026). Keep the following subscription terms in mind:
Warning
Auto-Renewal: Your first purchase of Just Dance Plus initiates an automatic monthly renewal. You must manually cancel the subscription through your platform store before the billing cycle renews if you do not wish to continue.
Compatibility: Just Dance Plus is compatible with entries from 2023 onwards and Decades of Hits, but it is not compatible with Just Dance 2022 or older legacy versions.
By linking your existing Ubisoft account, any previously unlocked music packs or song collections tied to your profile can be accessed directly on your current console menu without switching game discs.
Troubleshooting Common Connection Issues
Even with straightforward software, occasional pairing hiccups can occur during large party gatherings.
Tip
If your phone fails to detect the console, double-check that both devices are not split across different Wi-Fi bands (such as a 2.4GHz network versus a 5GHz guest network). Both devices must share the exact same local subnet to establish a stable connection.
If tracking feels inaccurate, ensure you are standing at an adequate distance from your TV screen with enough physical clearance to execute full-body choreography safely, especially when utilizing the six-player local couch co-op mode.
