Xbox Controller will not connect to Steam Deck if booted in 2.4 GHz mode

[yargh]

As of the last stable 3.5 release (it did occur in the version prior), Xbox controllers that boot in 2.4 GHz mode will NOT be recognized by the Steam Deck. People with an Xbox in the home (I'm not one of them) or have purchased the Xbox Wireless Adapter for Windows may fall prey to this. No update that I've downloaded via the Xbox Accessories Microsoft Store application has addressed this.

The issue is that if you power on a controller that boots in 2.4 GHz mode to an already active Steam Deck, the Steam Deck will not connect to it when you engage the controller's bluetooth connection. I have had this affect two different controllers, one who has the Wireless Adapter and another who owns an Xbox. The "find out more about pairing controllers with your device" section details this:

https://support.xbox.com/en-CA/help/hardware-network/accessories/connect-and-troubleshoot-xbox-one-bluetooth-issues

A workaround that is working so far is to first ensure the Steam Deck is off or asleep, turn on the affected Xbox controller, hold down the pair button until the Xbox logo flashes more rapidly meaning its looking for bluetooth (2 seconds-ish), THEN turn on/wake the Steam Deck. Everything should be fine at that point.

[SwagMasta]

This was the only thing that was able to solve my issue, thank you so much for sharing!!

[BigBoySmoke69]

I LOVE YOU KING! DROP YOUR ADDRESS I'M COMING TO KISS YOUR FOREHEAD!

[Boopadeboop]

Is there a way to force-control which type of connection mode the controller uses when turning it on?

[Dj11023]

What I found that worked for me was connecting Xbox Controller to Bluetooth via putting Steam Deck into Desktop Mode, then switching to back to Game Mode.

[DurryDan]

Originally posted by Dj11023:

What I found that worked for me was connecting Xbox Controller to Bluetooth via putting Steam Deck into Desktop Mode, then switching to back to Game Mode.

Can confirm switching to desktop mode to pair works