How to Use Universal Control with Your Mac and iPad

Universal Control is a magical macOS feature that allows you to use a single keyboard and mouse (or trackpad) to seamlessly control your Mac and your iPad at the same time. You can even drag and drop files directly between the two screens as if they were one computer. Here is how to set it up.

System Requirements

Before you begin, ensure your devices meet these criteria:

• Operating System: Your Mac must be running macOS Monterey 12.3 or later, and your iPad must be on iPadOS 15.4 or later.
• Apple ID: Both devices must be signed in to the same Apple ID using two-factor authentication.
• Connectivity: Both devices must have Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Handoff turned on. They must be within 30 feet of each other, and they cannot be sharing a cellular connection (like a Personal Hotspot).

How to Enable Universal Control

Step 1: On Your Mac

1. Go to the Apple menu () and select System Settings (or System Preferences).
2. Click Displays in the sidebar.
3. If you are using macOS Ventura or later, click the Advanced button at the bottom.
4. Turn on the toggle for “Allow your pointer and keyboard to move between any nearby Mac or iPad.” You should also enable the settings below it to push through the edge of the display to connect.

Step 2: On Your iPad

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap General, then tap AirPlay & Continuity (or AirPlay & Handoff).
3. Ensure the toggle for Cursor and Keyboard is turned ON.

How to Use Universal Control

Once everything is enabled, connecting the devices is completely seamless:

1. Place your iPad near your Mac and make sure both screens are awake and unlocked.
2. Use your Mac’s mouse or trackpad to move your cursor toward the edge of the Mac’s screen in the physical direction of your iPad.
3. Keep moving the cursor “past” the edge of your Mac’s screen. You will see a small grey bar appear on the edge of your iPad’s screen.
4. Continue pushing the cursor through, and it will magically pop over onto the iPad, turning into a small round circle.

You can now use your Mac’s keyboard to type in any app on your iPad, and use your mouse to click and drag files, photos, or text directly from one screen to the other.