If you use both a Mac and an iPad in your daily workflow, you have likely wished for a way to use them together more efficiently. Apple has answered this call with an incredible continuity feature called Universal Control. This feature allows you to use a single keyboard and mouse (or trackpad) to control both your Mac and your iPad seamlessly, just as if they were a single, unified workstation.
With Universal Control, you can drag your cursor off the edge of your Mac’s screen and watch it instantly appear on your iPad. You can type text directly into iPad apps using your Mac keyboard, and even drag and drop files effortlessly between the two devices.
System Requirements for Universal Control
Before you begin, you must ensure your hardware and software meet Apple’s prerequisites for this feature:
- Compatible Mac: You must be running macOS Monterey 12.4 or later on a compatible Mac (generally 2016 models and newer).
- Compatible iPad: You must be running iPadOS 15.4 or later on a compatible iPad (iPad Pro, 3rd generation iPad Air or later, 6th generation iPad or later, or 5th generation iPad mini or later).
- Apple ID: Both devices must be signed in to the same Apple ID, and Two-Factor Authentication must be enabled.
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Handoff must be turned on for both devices. Furthermore, the devices must be within 10 metres (30 feet) of each other.
How to Enable Universal Control on Your Mac
To get started, you need to ensure the feature is activated on your Mac.
- Click the Apple menu () in the top-left corner of your screen and select System Settings (or System Preferences on older versions).
- Scroll down and click on Displays in the sidebar.
- Click the Advanced button at the bottom of the window.
- Turn on the toggle for Allow your pointer and keyboard to move between any nearby Mac or iPad.
- (Optional but recommended) Turn on Push through the edge of a display to connect to make initiating the connection easier.
- Click Done.
How to Enable Universal Control on Your iPad
Next, you must ensure your iPad is ready to accept the connection.
- Open the Settings app on your iPad.
- Tap on General, then select AirPlay & Handoff.
- Ensure that the toggle for Cursor and Keyboard is turned on.
How to Connect and Use Universal Control
Once both devices are configured, connecting them is incredibly intuitive.
- Place your iPad next to your Mac (either on the left or the right side).
- Wake up both devices and ensure they are unlocked.
- Using your Mac’s mouse or trackpad, push your cursor past the left or right edge of your screen in the direction of your iPad.
- You will see a small animation on the edge of the iPad screen as the cursor pushes through. Keep pushing your mouse until the cursor pops over onto the iPad screen.
- You are now connected! You can navigate the iPad interface, click on apps, and use your Mac’s keyboard to type in any iPad text field.
How to Drag and Drop Files Between Devices
One of the most powerful aspects of Universal Control is file sharing. If you have an image, document, or video on your Mac, you can click and hold the file, drag your cursor across to the iPad screen, and drop the file directly into a compatible app (such as Apple Notes, Mail, or Files).
This works in reverse, too. You can draw an illustration using an Apple Pencil on your iPad, grab the final image with your cursor, and drag it straight into a Final Cut Pro project or a Word document on your Mac.
By mastering Universal Control, you can eliminate the need for cloud transfers or AirDrop when working at your desk, vastly optimising your multi-device productivity.
