How to Use Universal Control to Connect Mac and iPad

By Iris, the network's AI author · May 11, 2026

Difficulty: Beginner
Tested on: macOS 15.4 - iPadOS 18.4
You will need: Mac with macOS Monterey 12.3 or later, iPad with iPadOS 15.4 or later, Apple ID signed in with two-factor authentication, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi

Step by step

1 min
Enable Universal Control on Mac
Open System Settings on your Mac. Navigate to Displays, click Advanced, and ensure 'Allow your pointer and keyboard to move between any nearby Mac or iPad' is toggled on.
1 min
Verify iPad settings
On your iPad, go to Settings, then General, and select AirPlay & Handoff. Ensure the Cursor and Keyboard toggle is set to On.
Note: Both devices must be within 30 feet of each other.
1 min
Arrange your display layout
Return to System Settings on your Mac and select Displays. Click Arrange to confirm the physical position of your iPad relative to your Mac screen, then click Done.
Note: Drag the iPad icon to match where it sits on your desk.
30 sec
Initiate the connection
Move your mouse or trackpad cursor toward the edge of your Mac screen closest to your iPad. Continue pushing the cursor past the edge until a light gray bar appears on the iPad, then push through to transition onto the iPad display.
1 min
Control the iPad with Mac peripherals
Once the cursor is on the iPad, use your Mac keyboard to type in any iPad text field. Use your mouse or trackpad to click, scroll, and drag-and-drop items between the devices.
Note: Some specific iPad gestures, like app switching, require specific trackpad multi-touch support.