How to use one keyboard and mouse for a Mac and an iPad (Universal Control)

2 min read · 7 steps · Updated 2 October 2026

With Universal Control, the trackpad and keyboard of your Mac also control an iPad or a second Mac next to it. Each device keeps showing its own screen and apps, and you can drag files from one to the other. That is the difference from Sidecar, which turns the iPad into a second display for the Mac.

Menu names are from recent versions of macOS, where the settings app is called System Settings.

Step by step

1. Check the devices

   The Mac needs macOS Monterey 12.4 or later and the iPad iPadOS 15.4 or later. Supported are Macs from 2016 on, with a few exceptions, all iPad Pro models, iPad from the 6th generation, iPad Air from the 3rd and iPad mini from the 5th.

   Done

2. Check the connections

   Both devices use the same Apple Account with two-factor authentication, are within 10 metres of each other and have Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and Handoff switched on. The iPad must not be sharing its mobile connection, and the Mac must not be sharing its internet connection.

   Done

3. Turn it on on the Mac

   Choose Apple menu, System Settings, Displays and click Advanced. Switch on Allow your pointer and keyboard to move between any nearby Mac or iPad. Leave the other options on.

   Done

4. Turn it on on the iPad

   Open Settings, General, AirPlay & Continuity and switch on Cursor and Keyboard.

   Done

5. Connect by pushing the pointer

   Put the iPad next to the Mac, awake and unlocked. Move the pointer to the edge of the Mac screen on the side where the iPad stands and keep pushing. The pointer comes out on the iPad.

   Done

6. Arrange the screens

   If the pointer crosses at the wrong side, open System Settings, Displays, click Arrange and drag the picture of the iPad to where it really stands.

   Done

7. Type and drag across

   The keyboard types on whichever device the pointer is on. Drag a file or a picture across the edge to move it, for example from Photos on the iPad into a folder on the Mac.

   Done

Good to know

One Mac can control up to two other devices in this way.

To disconnect, put the iPad to sleep, or click Control Center on the Mac, then Display, and deselect the iPad.

To use the iPad as an extra screen for Mac windows: how to use an iPad as a second screen for a Mac with Sidecar.

If Handoff is off, nothing here works: how to use Handoff between a Mac and an iPhone.

In short: Same Apple Account, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and Handoff on. Mac: Displays, Advanced, allow pointer and keyboard. iPad: AirPlay & Continuity, Cursor and Keyboard. Push the pointer across.