PS1 on iPhone & Android

Which Emulator to Use on Mobile

DuckStation is the clear recommendation on both platforms. It's the same codebase as the desktop version — full PGXP support, per-game settings, and the same BIOS format.

DuckStation on Android

Step 1: Install DuckStation

Install DuckStation from the Google Play Store. Alternatively, download the APK directly from the GitHub releases page if you prefer not to use Play Store. Grant storage permissions when prompted.

Step 2: Transfer Your BIOS File

Your BIOS file (scph1001.bin or similar) must be transferred to your Android device. Options:

• USB cable: Connect your phone to a PC, navigate to Internal Storage, create a folder named DuckStation/bios/, and copy the .bin file in.
• Google Drive / Dropbox: Upload the file from PC, download it on Android, then move it to the DuckStation bios folder using a file manager app.
• AirDrop equivalent: Use LocalSend or Nearby Share to transfer the file wirelessly from a nearby device.

Step 3: Configure the BIOS in DuckStation

Open DuckStation → tap the three-dot menu → Settings → BIOS. Tap the BIOS directory path and navigate to where you put the .bin file. A green checkmark confirms a valid file was detected.

Step 4: Add Game Files

Tap the folder icon to add a game search directory. Navigate to where your PS1 disc images are stored (.chd, .bin/.cue, or .iso formats). DuckStation will scan the folder and display your library.

DuckStation on iPhone / iPad (iOS 17.4+)

Step 1: Install DuckStation from the App Store

As of iOS 17.4, emulators are permitted on the App Store in the EU. DuckStation is available in applicable regions. For other regions, you can install it via AltStore or sideloading with a free Apple developer account.

Step 2: Transfer Your BIOS File

The easiest method on iOS is using the Files app:

• Connect your iPhone to a Mac and use Finder to drag the BIOS file into the DuckStation app's "On My iPhone" folder.
• Or: save the BIOS file to iCloud Drive from any device, then use the Files app on your iPhone to copy it into DuckStation's storage location.
• Or: use iTunes File Sharing on Windows (iTunes → device → Apps → File Sharing → DuckStation).

Step 3: Set the BIOS Path in DuckStation

Open DuckStation on iOS → Settings → BIOS. Tap the BIOS Directory field and navigate to the folder where you placed your .bin file. The file will appear in the list with a version string if valid.

Step 4: Import Game Files

Tap the "+" icon to import games. On iOS you can import from iCloud Drive, a connected USB drive (with the Files app), or any cloud storage service. CHD format is recommended — single compressed file, no multi-track issues.

RetroArch on Mobile (Beetle PSX HW)

RetroArch is more complex to set up but offers more cores and customisation options. For PS1 emulation specifically, use the Beetle PSX HW core.

• Install RetroArch from the app store or AltStore.
• Download the Beetle PSX HW core via Online Updater → Core Downloader.
• Place your BIOS files in the RetroArch system folder. Beetle PSX HW requires specific filenames: scph5500.bin (Japan), scph5501.bin (USA), scph5502.bin (Europe).
• If your files are named differently (e.g., scph1001.bin), rename them to the exact filenames above before placing them in the system folder.

Controllers on Mobile

Touch controls work but PS1 games were designed for physical controllers. Bluetooth controllers pair with both iOS and Android:

Performance Tips for Mobile

• Resolution: On mobile, 2x or 4x is usually sufficient — the phone screen is small enough that 8x doesn't add visible benefit at normal viewing distance.
• PGXP: Enable Geometry Correction on most mid-range and flagship devices. Potato mode (no PGXP) for older phones.
• Battery drain: DuckStation is more CPU-intensive than simple 2D emulators. Keep the device plugged in or on a charging pad for long sessions.
• Save states: On mobile, save states are especially useful — you can pick up exactly where you left off without navigating menus.

Finished setting up? See the full DuckStation configuration guide →