Installation & Setup
Axis Gamepad Pro runs on Android 8.0 and newer. Because the app sends touch input through Android system services, the setup flow depends on Shizuku plus a small set of runtime permissions.
Requirements at a glance
Android Version
Android 8.0 or later
Privilege Layer
Shizuku must be running
UI Access
Overlay permission required
Foreground Service
Notification permission on A13+
The setup flow
Install and start Shizuku
Shizuku gives Axis access to the Android APIs it needs without requiring a rooted device. Install Shizuku from its official source, open it, and start the service.
wifi Android 11 and newer
Use Wireless Debugging from the Shizuku app. This is the most convenient no-PC workflow once your device supports the feature.
terminal Android 8 to 10
Use the Shizuku ADB start flow from a connected PC. Once the service is running, you can continue the rest of the Axis setup on the phone.
Install Axis Gamepad Pro
Deploy the interface to your mobile hardware.
check_circle Download the current Axis Gamepad Pro APK.
check_circle Install it on your Android device. If prompted, allow your browser or file manager to install unknown apps.
check_circle Open Axis after confirming that Shizuku reports the service as running.
Grant the required permissions
Initialize security clearance for touch injection.
check_circleShizuku authorization: Approve Axis when the Shizuku permission dialog appears. Without this authorization, the mapping layer cannot send touch input.
check_circleDisplay over other apps: This permission is required for the overlay editor, placement handles, and other on-screen mapping tools.
check_circleNotification access on Android 13+: If your device asks for notification permission, allow it so Axis can keep its foreground service visible while mapping is active.
Connect your controller and verify input
Establish the hardware link and confirm the first input loop is working correctly.
Pair your controller over Bluetooth or connect it over USB.
Confirm Android itself recognizes the controller before opening a game.
Launch Axis and create a simple test mapping to confirm that button input and overlay placement are both working.
Waiting for hardware sync...
warning Important: Shizuku must be restarted after a reboot
This is expected. If your phone restarts, start Shizuku again before using Axis. If you skip that step, mappings may appear to load normally while touch injection fails.