Picture this: you're on a beach in Thailand, using your phone to operate your partner's vibrator thousands of miles away. It may sound like a dream, but it's an app-controlled sex toy, doing exactly what it was designed to do.

New to Bluetooth pleasure products? Read on! In this guide, I'll explore app-controlled sex toys and discuss how they can be used for both solo and partnered play. I'll talk about their features and advantages, how to choose the right one for you, and reveal my top picks for the best app-controlled vibrators, anal toys, and strokers.      

What Are App-Controlled Sex Toys?

App-controlled sex toys, sometimes called teledildonics or cyberdildonics, are electronic pleasure products that can be controlled through an app on your mobile device. The typical app-controlled toy offers:

• Customizable vibration patterns
• A wide variety of intensity levels
• The ability to sync your toy to music
• In-app chat
• Programmable sounds

All app-controlled sex toys require a Wi-Fi or cellular data connection. Once linked to the app on your cell or tablet, you have complete command of the toy's settings, no matter where you are in the world. 

Types of App-Controlled Sex Toys

As the popularity of app-controlled toys increases, more options are becoming available. Types of app-controlled toys include:

• Wand vibrators
• Air pressure clitoral stimulators
• Penis strokers
• Butt plugs
• G-spot toys
• Panty vibrators
• Penis rings 

Though app-controlled toys are great for partnered play and long-distance relationships, they're just as pleasurable for solo sessions. Not only can phone controls be easier than manual operation or remotes, but apps offer more speeds, sounds, patterns, and customization options. 

To see how an app-controlled toy works, check out my reviews of the We-Vibe Moxie and the We-Vibe Chorus!

Benefits Of App-Controlled Sex Toys 

App-controlled toys do much more than just let you take over the vibes with your phone. Some of the benefits of these toys include:

Long-distance play

Whether you're across the room from your partner or across the world, app-controlled toys let you connect no matter what the distance. With an app-controlled toy, if you have Wi-Fi, you have a direct line to your partner's pleasure. 

Some toys even let you play at the same time, syncing rhythms to make the experience more like being together. Though video calls and texting are important, the physical aspect of app-controlled helps you stay in touch (quite literally!) in a deeper and more intimate way. 

For more ideas for toys to use during partnered play, check out Best Sex Toys For Intercourse

Cam work

App-controlled toys have changed the nature of cam work and made it more interactive — and arguably more lucrative. Many cam workers now use Bluetooth toys that can be operated by clients from around the world in exchange for tips. 

Discretion

App-controlled pleasure products allow you to operate a toy without touching it or using a remote, a nice perk if you or your partner like to engage in play while out and about. A phone is less obvious than a remote and allows you to switch up sensations discreetly on the fly. 

Variety of sensation

Another benefit of app-controlled toys is the sheer number of stimulation options. From intensity levels to patterns to custom sounds created by you and/or your partner, app-controlled toys make it easy to personalize your pleasure.  

Synchronization

Sync your app to your music playlist, music playing in the background, or to your partner's toy for stimulation that's totally your own. Syncing a toy to music can help you feel more connected to your environment for an experience that involves multiple senses. 

User-friendly interfaces

You don't have to be tech-savvy to enjoy app-controlled sex toys. The apps are created to be easy to pair with and intuitive to use, even during the throes of passion. 

How To Choose An App-Controlled Sex Toy

Choosing an app-controlled sex toys doesn't have to be overwhelming! When browsing for a Bluetooth toy, try the following tips:

• Determine your needs: Before you start shopping, know what kind of toy you're looking for and what you want it to do. Are you interested in a vibrator, a couples' toy to use during intercourse, or a stroker? 
• Budget: Set a budget. Remember that, because of the technology involved, app-controlled sex toys can be a bit pricier than non-Bluetooth options. The phone apps are free to download and don't require a subscription
• Research: Do your homework, check out reviews, and buy from trusted sources. Avoid websites that sell knock-off toys. These may be poorly made or constructed from materials that aren't body-safe

How To Use App-Controlled Sex Toys 

App-controlled sex toys may sound complicated to set up and use, but they're actually quite simple. Here are the basic steps to take when you first get your Bluetooth toy: 

Charge it fully

Many sex toys come with a minimal charge that allows you to turn them on when you receive them, but your app-controlled toy should be fully charged before you use it. Note that a complete charge can take several hours. 

Sync your device with the app

The first step to using an app-controlled sex toy is to sync the device with its corresponding app. This involves downloading a specific app onto your smartphone or tablet and connecting the two via Bluetooth. 

To sync, make sure both your toy and your phone's Bluetooth are turned on. Open the app of the brand you're using and follow their pairing instructions. This typically requires pressing a button on the toy to put it in pairing mode. Once connected, you'll see confirmation within the app itself.

Customizing your settings

Once you've charged your toy and successfully paired it with the mobile app, it's time to play. Experiment with the settings to discover how they work and which levels are best for you. These settings will typically include: 

• Vibration intensity: Adjust the vibration strength to what feels best for you, whether you prefer gentle pulsations, powerful vibrations, or something in between
• Rhythm patterns: Many apps come with pre-loaded rhythm patterns that you can choose from, and some even let you create your own custom patterns.
• User controls: Some app-controlled toys offer options like voice commands or motion-sensitive controls, adding an extra layer of excitement to playtime

Many apps also include features designed to enhance the connection between you and your partner, even when you're physically apart. Some apps offer video chat functions, allowing face-to-face interaction while you remotely control each other's toys and opening up new ways to share pleasure from a distance.

Monitor your data

Monitor your data consumption when using app-controlled sex toys, as streaming videos, sending images, and live chats can consume large amounts of data. 

Safety and Privacy of App-Controlled Sex Toys

As with any app or device, you'll want to mitigate any potential security issues or privacy concerns associated with app-controlled sex toys. Here are some best practices to follow:

• Password protection: Always set a strong password for your app-controlled sex toy 
• Frequent updates: Regularly update your phone or other device to reduce the risk of security flaws
• Data sharing consent: Read the terms and conditions before you consenting to share your usage data with manufacturers or third-party apps
• Limit access: Give log-in information only to people you trust. Consider updating your log-in info if you change partners

Best App-Controlled Sex Toys 

Ready to try an app-controlled sex toy, or find the next one for your collection? Here's a list of our current favorites in several of the most popular categories:

Best App-Controlled Couples' Toy

We-Vibe Chorus On the hunt for an app-controlled toy you can wear during intercourse? The We-Vibe Chorus is the original Bluetooth couples' toy and, in my opinion, it's still the best. This top-of-the-line, triple-threat toy stimulates the clitoris, G-spot, and penis all at the same time. Use the squeeze control to boost the vibes simply by applying pressure to the remote.

Best App-Controlled Panty Vibrators

Lovense Ferri Lovense is famous for their app-controlled toys, and the Ferri Panty Vibrator is one of their most popular offerings. This powerful-yet-quiet toy is perfect for Os on the go, date night, and long-distance partnered play. 

We-Vibe Moxie This ultra-popular, app-controlled panty vibe also includes a remote for those of us who like options. This sleek toy clips securely into underwear and delivers discreet, stimulating rumbles.

Best App-Controlled Wand Vibrator

Lovense Domi If you're wondering if an app-controlled vibrator can still bring the deep, low-frequency stimulation good wands are known for, the answer is a resounding yes. The Lovense Domi is not only a cinch to operate from anywhere in the world, it's also just a great rumbly vibrator. I especially love its flexible neck and 5-6 hour run-time.   

Learn more: Rumbly Vs. Buzzy Vibrators

Best App-Controlled Strokers

Lovense Gush  Do you perk up when you hear the words "hands-free?" Then check out the Gush penis stroker. This textured silicone stroker is not only body-safe and more durable than strokers made from thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), it comes with a clever little strap that makes it a cinch to use without manual stroking. The Gush is also rumbly af for deliciously deep stimulation. 

Lovense Max 2 If squishy-soft, full-shaft contractions are more your speed, don't miss the Lovense Max 2. With a thrillingly textured interior, 9 vibe settings, and 3 contraction settings, the Max 2 would be a mind-blowing stroker even without the app-control factor. This toy can also be synced with another Max 2 or the Lovense Nora rabbit vibe for shared pleasure. 

Best App-Controlled Cock Ring

We-Vibe Verge Designed to hold both the penis and testicles in a pleasurable embrace, the Verge vibrating cock ring from We-Vibe is one of my favorite toys for intercourse. It's shaped to stimulate the clitoris as well as the penis and stretches to fit almost any anatomy. 

For more of our favorite cock rings: Best Cock Rings 2023

Best App-Controlled Butt Plug

Lovense Hush 2 This rumbly plug features a T-bar base for safety and comes in 4 sizes, making it the perfect pick for anal aficionados as well as beginners. Made from smooth, body-safe silicone, this super-stimulating toy delivers pleasure for up to 11 (you read that right!) blissful hours.