The recent iPadOS 27 update has introduced a significant regression in how iPads handle external displays during presentations. Previously, users could project a presentation or document via AirPlay to an external screen while simultaneously using other applications on their iPad for notes or other tasks. This functionality allowed for a dedicated presenter view on the external display, keeping private information hidden from the audience.
With iPadOS 27, tapping on any app other than the presenting application causes the external display to switch from the presentation view to mirroring the entire iPad screen. This means that audiences can see private notes, poll results, or other sensitive information intended only for the presenter. The sudden changes in display content are also distracting for viewers, disrupting the flow of presentations in educational and professional settings.
The impact of this change varies across different applications. In GoodNotes, the presenter view can be restored by tapping back into the app. However, in Keynote, the presentation exits entirely, and in PowerPoint, the application enters a state requiring a restart of the presentation. This inconsistent behavior adds further complications for users relying on these apps for presentations.
The previous iPadOS 26 system for controlling external displays was less intuitive, requiring users to swipe up and select an app from the dock to take over the external display. While complex, it allowed for a stable presentation view. Apple's new approach in iPadOS 27, where the most recently tapped app dictates the external display, is described as a worse solution that compromises presentation integrity.
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The iPadOS 27 update introduced a regression that causes external displays to mirror the entire iPad screen when switching apps during a presentation. This change disrupts teaching and professional presentations by exposing private notes and creating distracting visual changes for the audience. The previous iPadOS 26 behavior, while unintuitive, allowed users to maintain a dedicated presentation view on an external display while using other apps on the iPad.