Universal Control is one of the most impressive features in the Apple ecosystem. With a single keyboard and mouse or trackpad, you can seamlessly control multiple Macs and iPads as if they were one large screen. Move your pointer from your Mac to your iPad and keep typing right there. In this article you'll learn how to set up Universal Control and get the most out of it.

What is Universal Control?

Universal Control is an Apple feature that lets you use one set of input devices for several devices at the same time. You can use your Mac keyboard and trackpad to control your iPad, or even to switch between two Macs.

What makes it special is that you do this simply by moving your pointer to the edge of the screen. The pointer then jumps over to the other device. You can also drag files between devices, copy text on one and paste it on the other, and use your keyboard to type on both devices.

This is different from Sidecar, where your iPad acts as a second display for your Mac. With Universal Control, both devices keep running their own operating system, but they share the input devices.

Requirements for Universal Control

To use Universal Control, you need compatible hardware and software.

Mac requirements

  • macOS Monterey 12.3 or later
  • Supported models: MacBook Pro (2016+), MacBook (2016+), MacBook Air (2018+), iMac (2017+), iMac Pro, Mac mini (2018+), Mac Pro (2019+), Mac Studio
  • Set up a step counter app: move every day

iPad requirements

  • iPadOS 15.4 or later
  • Supported models: iPad Pro (all models), iPad Air (3rd generation+), iPad (6th generation+), iPad mini (5th generation+)

General requirements

  • Both devices signed in with the same Apple ID
  • Two-factor authentication turned on
  • Bluetooth and Wi-Fi turned on on both devices
  • Devices within 10 meters of each other
  • Handoff turned on on both devices
  • The devices must not be sharing a cellular or internet connection

Turning on Universal Control on your Mac

Follow these steps to activate Universal Control on your Mac:

Step 1: Open System Settings

Click the Apple menu and select System Settings.

Step 2: Go to Displays

Click Displays in the sidebar. Older macOS versions use the same name, Displays.

Step 3: Open the Advanced settings

Click the Advanced button at the bottom right of the window.

Step 4: Turn on Universal Control

You'll see three options:

  • Allow your pointer and keyboard to move between any nearby Mac or iPad: This is the main switch for Universal Control
  • Push through the edge of a display to connect a nearby Mac or iPad: This lets you connect by moving your pointer to the edge
  • Automatically reconnect to any nearby Mac or iPad: Your devices connect automatically when they are nearby

Turn on all three options for the best experience.

Turning on Universal Control on your iPad

On your iPad you also need to turn on a setting:

  1. Open the Settings app
  2. Tap General
  3. Tap AirPlay & Handoff
  4. Turn on Cursor and Keyboard

Connecting devices with Universal Control

Now that both devices are configured, you can connect them. There are two methods:

Method 1: Using the screen edge

Place your iPad next to your Mac. Move your pointer to the edge of your Mac screen in the direction of your iPad. You'll see a visual indication that your pointer is trying to jump over. Keep moving and your pointer appears on your iPad.

Method 2: Using the Displays settings

  1. Go to System Settings > Displays
  2. Click the plus button (+) and select your iPad from the list
  3. Your iPad is now linked

Arranging the screens

You can adjust the position of your devices so it matches their physical setup:

  1. Go to System Settings > Displays
  2. Click Arrange
  3. Drag the screen thumbnails to the position you want
  4. Place them side by side, one above the other, or in another configuration

This makes sure your pointer shows up in the right place when you switch devices.

Sharing files between devices

One of the most powerful features of Universal Control is dragging files between devices:

From Mac to iPad

  1. Select a file on your Mac
  2. Drag it to the edge of the screen toward your iPad
  3. Keep dragging until your pointer appears on your iPad
  4. Drop it in a supported app such as Files, Photos or a document editor

From iPad to Mac

  1. Use your Mac trackpad to select a file on your iPad
  2. Drag it to the edge of your iPad screen toward your Mac
  3. Drop it on your Mac desktop or in a folder

Not all file types and apps support drag and drop. Experiment to find out what works for your workflow.

Copying and pasting text

You can copy text on one device and paste it on the other. This works through Universal Clipboard:

  1. Select text on your Mac or iPad
  2. Copy it with Command + C (or through the menu)
  3. Move your pointer to the other device
  4. Paste with Command + V

The clipboard syncs automatically between devices, so you don't need to do anything special.

Using the keyboard on both devices

Your Mac keyboard automatically works on whichever device your pointer is on. A few tips:

  • Command shortcuts also work on the iPad when your pointer is there
  • On the iPad you can use Command + H to go to the Home Screen
  • Command + Tab shows the app switcher on the active device
  • Escape works like the Home button on the iPad

Universal Control with multiple devices

Universal Control supports up to three devices at the same time. For example, you can use one Mac with two iPads, or two Macs with one iPad. The setup works the same way; simply add more devices through the Displays settings.

Difference between Universal Control and Sidecar

It's important to understand the difference:

Universal Control

  • Each device runs its own operating system
  • You share the keyboard and mouse/trackpad
  • iPad apps run on the iPad
  • Ideal for using iPad-specific apps

Sidecar

  • The iPad acts as a second Mac display
  • Mac apps are extended onto the iPad
  • The iPad doesn't run its own apps in this mode
  • Ideal for expanding your Mac workspace

You can choose which feature to use depending on what you need at that moment.

Practical uses

Here are some ways Universal Control can boost your productivity:

Drawing and writing

Use iPad apps such as Procreate or GoodNotes with your Apple Pencil while keeping your Mac workflow. Drag finished drawings straight to your Mac.

Reference material

Keep documentation or tutorial videos open on your iPad while you work on your Mac. Copy code or text between the two devices.

Communication

Keep chat apps or email open on your iPad while you focus on your work on your Mac. Reply quickly without switching context.

Presentations

Control a presentation on your Mac while you view your notes on your iPad.

Troubleshooting

If Universal Control isn't working, try these solutions:

Devices are not detected

  • Check that both devices use the same Apple ID
  • Make sure Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are turned on
  • Turn on Handoff on both devices
  • Restart both devices

The pointer doesn't jump over

  • Check that the screen arrangement is correct in System Settings
  • Move the pointer slowly and with more pressure toward the edge
  • Try turning the push through the edge option off and back on

The connection drops

  • Keep the devices within 10 meters
  • Avoid interference from other wireless devices
  • Turn on automatic reconnecting

Tips for the best experience

Get the most out of Universal Control:

  • Physical setup: Place your devices in the same order as the screen arrangement
  • Consistent orientation: Keep your iPad in a fixed position, for example on a stand
  • Learn shortcuts: Memorize iPad keyboard shortcuts to navigate more efficiently
  • Keep an eye on the battery: Universal Control can drain the battery faster

Conclusion

Universal Control transforms the way you work with multiple Apple devices. By sharing your keyboard and trackpad between your Mac and iPad, you create a seamless workspace without constantly switching input devices. Whether you're dragging files, copying text or simply switching quickly between devices, Universal Control makes it effortless. Set it up today and see for yourself how powerful the Apple ecosystem can be when your devices work together perfectly.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between Universal Control and Sidecar?

With Universal Control you share your keyboard and mouse between devices that each run their own system. With Sidecar your iPad acts as a second Mac display that shows Mac apps. Choose Universal Control for iPad apps and Sidecar for more Mac workspace.

How many devices can I use with Universal Control?

Universal Control supports up to three devices at the same time. For example, you can use one Mac with two iPads, or two Macs with one iPad.

Can I drag files between my Mac and iPad with Universal Control?

Yes, you can drag files from your Mac to your iPad and the other way around. Drag the file to the screen edge, wait until your pointer jumps over, and drop it in a supported app such as Files or Photos.

Why doesn't my iPad show up in Universal Control?

Check that both devices use the same Apple ID, that Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are turned on, and that Handoff is activated. Also make sure the devices are within 10 meters of each other and aren't sharing each other's internet connection.

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