How to Move Windows Between Displays on iPad

Difficulty
Beginner
Tested on
iPadOS 18.4 - iPad Pro M4
You will need
USB-C or Thunderbolt display, compatible iPad, Magic Keyboard or Trackpad

Step by step

  1. 1 min

    Enable Stage Manager

    Open Settings, select Multitasking & Gestures, and toggle on Stage Manager. This feature is required to manage windows across multiple displays independently.

    Note: Stage Manager must be active to move windows freely between screens.
  2. 1 min

    Position the displays

    Navigate to Settings > Display & Brightness > Arrangement. Drag the display icons to match the physical orientation of your desk setup to ensure fluid mouse movement between screens.

    Note: Align the white menu bar indicator to the screen you intend to use as the primary display.
  3. 30 sec

    Drag the window frame

    Click and hold the grab handle located at the bottom corner of the active app window. Drag the window across the screen boundary into the secondary display.

    Note: The window will snap into the secondary display workspace once the cursor crosses the monitor threshold.
  4. 30 sec

    Use the Globe shortcut

    Press the Globe key + Control + F to immediately move the current window to the other display. This shortcut toggles the focus of the active window between your iPad screen and the external monitor.

    Note: Ensure your keyboard is connected via Bluetooth or Smart Connector.
  5. 1 min

    Resize for display

    Once the window is placed on the external monitor, drag the corner handle to expand the window to full size. iPadOS will remember this window position and size for the specific display configuration.

    Note: Some applications may require a relaunch to optimize their UI layout for larger displays.