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Guide to Using an iPad as a Second Screen for Mac or Windows PCs
Key points
- Sidecar allows iPads to function as secondary displays for Macs.
- Universal Control enables shared input devices between Macs and iPads.
- Both Sidecar and Universal Control require devices to be on the same iCloud account.
- Third-party apps are available for Windows users to achieve similar functionality.
Overview of iPad as a Second Screen
iPads can serve as portable external displays for both Mac and Windows computers, offering additional screen space for productivity. While not originally designed for this purpose, several solutions exist, ranging from integrated Apple features to third-party applications.
Sidecar for Mac Users
Sidecar is Apple's native solution for using an iPad as a secondary display for a Mac. Key requirements include having a Mac and ensuring both the Mac and iPad are signed into the same iCloud account. Once configured, the iPad functions as a full-resolution external display, with adjustable placement through System Settings.
Universal Control for Mac and iPad
Universal Control allows users to control both a Mac and an iPad with a single keyboard and mouse, and to drag and drop files between devices. This feature requires both devices to be on the same iCloud account and have two-factor authentication enabled. It can be activated through the Screen Mirroring settings in Control Center.
Alternatives for Windows Users
Windows users do not have access to Apple's Sidecar or Universal Control. However, third-party applications are available that replicate the functionality of using an iPad as an external display for Windows PCs.
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Reporting from
This guide details methods for using an iPad as an external display for Mac and Windows computers, including Apple's built-in Sidecar and Universal Control features. It explains how to set up these functionalities to expand screen space and improve productivity for users with both devices.