Master Your Digital Domain with Apple's Universal Control for Mac and iPad

Apple's latest software updates, macOS 12.3 and iPadOS 15.4, have brought a game-changing feature to the table - Universal Control. This innovative technology enables users to seamlessly control multiple Macs and iPads using just one mouse and keyboard. In this article, we'll delve into the world of Universal Control, exploring its features, benefits, and how it differs from Sidecar.

How Does Universal Control Work?

To use Universal Control, your devices must meet certain system requirements, which are outlined on Apple's website. The devices need to be within 30 feet of each other, and they must not be tethered or connected via a USB cable. Bluetooth and Wi-Fi should also be enabled, and Handoff turned on.

Universal Control vs. Sidecar

While Universal Control is similar to Sidecar in many ways, there are some key differences that set it apart. Sidecar allows users to turn an iPad into a secondary display for their Mac, whereas Universal Control enables the control of multiple devices with one mouse and keyboard.

With Universal Control, you can connect more than two devices and use native apps on them all from your primary device's keyboard and trackpad. This feature is particularly useful for those who work across different Macs or have a Mac, iPad, and MacBook Pro combination.

Here are some of the standout features of Universal Control:

* Seamlessly control multiple Macs and iPads using one mouse and keyboard

* Launch and use native apps on secondary devices from your primary device's keyboard and trackpad

* Connect more than two devices, including different types of Macs

* Manage secondary displays using the 'Display' menu in macOS' menu bar

Limitations of Universal Control

While Universal Control is an impressive feature, there are some limitations to keep in mind. For example, you cannot run software on the iPad itself when using Universal Control. However, you can start any app on your Mac and then drag its window to the iPad's display.

Universal Control is a powerful tool that offers a new level of flexibility and productivity for Apple users. By understanding how it works, its features, and limitations, you can unlock the full potential of this innovative technology. Whether you're working across different devices or simply looking for a way to streamline your workflow, Universal Control is definitely worth exploring.

Universal control mac and ipad