Bitwarden & Gamecontrollerd Conflict on macOS

TL;DR

Bitwarden browser extensions can interfere with gamecontrollerd (Apple’s gamepad framework) on macOS Big Sur and later. This guide explains how to fix it by disabling Bitwarden for specific websites.

Solution Guide

1. Identify the Problem: When using a gamepad with games or applications, you might experience issues like incorrect button mappings, controller not being detected, or erratic behaviour. This often happens when Bitwarden is active in your browser while trying to use gamecontrollerd.
2. Check Bitwarden Extension Settings: Open your web browser (Safari, Chrome, Firefox etc.) and access the Bitwarden extension settings. The exact location varies slightly depending on your browser:
   • Chrome/Firefox: Right-click the Bitwarden icon in your toolbar > Manage Extensions > Details > Extension Options
   • Safari: Safari > Preferences > Extensions > Bitwarden > Preferences
3. Disable Auto-Fill for Game Websites/Applications: Within the extension settings, look for options related to auto-fill or website access. You need to prevent Bitwarden from injecting itself into websites used by your games or applications.
   • Website Exceptions: Most extensions have a section where you can add exceptions (websites where Bitwarden should *not* run).
   • Specific URLs: Add the specific URL(s) of the game’s launcher, website, or application that is causing issues. For example:

     https://www.examplegame.com

4. Disable Bitwarden Globally (Temporary Test): As a test, temporarily disable the Bitwarden extension completely in your browser. If this resolves the gamepad issue, it confirms that Bitwarden is indeed the cause.
5. Add Exceptions Carefully: Once you’ve confirmed Bitwarden is the problem, add exceptions one at a time and re-test each game/application to ensure you haven’t blocked anything essential. Avoid adding broad exceptions like ‘*.’ unless absolutely necessary; be as specific as possible.
6. Clear Browser Cache: After making changes to Bitwarden settings, clear your browser’s cache and cookies. This ensures that any old data isn’t interfering with the new configuration.
   • Safari: Safari > Preferences > Privacy > Manage Website Data
   • Chrome/Firefox: Browser Settings > Clear browsing data
7. Restart Gamecontrollerd (If Necessary): In rare cases, you might need to restart the gamecontrollerd process. Open Terminal and run:

   sudo killall gamecontrollerd

   The system will automatically restart it.

8. Check for Bitwarden Updates: Ensure you are running the latest version of the Bitwarden browser extension. Updates often include bug fixes that may address compatibility issues.