If you are trying to provide remote technical support to a frustrated family member or a confused coworker, attempting to describe a complex software menu or a hidden system preference over a traditional phone call is an agonizing experience. Rather than blindly guessing what they are looking at, or forcing them to jump through hoops to download sketchy third-party remote desktop software, you can leverage the Apple ecosystem to instantly see their monitor. You can seamlessly share screens directly through the built-in Messages application on your Mac.
Requirements for Screen Sharing
This feature only works if both you and the person you are communicating with are using Apple devices (Macs) and are signed into Apple Messages using your Apple IDs. You cannot share your screen with a Windows PC using this native method.
How to Request Access to a Screen
If your mother is struggling to attach a file to an email, you can send a request to view her screen directly from your chat window.
- Open the native Messages app on your Mac.
- In the left-hand sidebar, click on your conversation with the person you want to help.
- In the extreme top right corner of the chat window, click the small Info (i) button.
- In the menu that appears, click the Share button (the icon looks like two overlapping blue rectangles).
- A drop-down menu will appear. Select Ask to Share Screen.
An instant notification will pop up on your family member’s Mac, stating that you are asking to observe their screen. Once they click “Accept,” their entire desktop environment will appear inside a window on your Mac monitor. An audio call will also instantly connect, allowing you to talk to them while you visually guide them through the problem. If necessary, you can click the mouse icon in your toolbar to request control of their mouse and keyboard to fix the issue yourself.
How to Share Your Own Screen
If you want to present a slideshow or show a coworker how you edited a photograph, you can push your screen to them.
- Follow the exact same steps above to open the Share menu in the chat.
- Select Invite to Share My Screen.
Once they accept, they will be able to watch your every move on their own Mac monitor.