Do you find it frustrating to switch back and forth between tabs and windows on your Mac? Would you like an additional screen for your work? If you have an iPad, you can use it as a second screen for your Mac. That provides more room for work and enhances productivity and creativity. Here, we'll show you how to use your iPad as a second screen for your Mac. This tutorial is suitable for both creative professionals and those who want to expand their workspace. Alright, let's begin!
Using Sidecar to Use iPad as a Second Screen for Mac
Do you sometimes wish you had an extra screen when using your Mac? You can compare two documents or use one screen for video calls and the other for your tasks. Sidecar is a useful feature by Apple that lets you use your iPad as a second display for your Mac. This guide will show you how to set up and use Sidecar to improve your workflow.
Meet the Given Requirements Before Using Sidecar
If you're eager to use Sidecar to boost your productivity and efficiency, here are the requirements you must meet before you can start using this feature.
1) Compatible Devices:
Make sure your Apple devices meet these specifications before using Sidecar:
- Mac: You need to have macOS Catalina or a newer version on your Mac.
- iPad: iPad 13 or newer, iPad Pro, iPad, iPad mini, or iPad Air released in the specific years.
- Apple Mac devices: MacBook Pro, MacBook, MacBook Air, iMac, iMac Pro, Mac mini, Mac Pro, or Mac Studio released in the mentioned years.
2) Apple ID with Two-Factor Verification:
To maintain security and restrict device access, your Mac and iPad need to be logged in with the same Apple ID and have two-factor authentication activated.
3) Wireless Connection:
To use Sidecar wirelessly, make sure both devices have Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Handoff enabled. They must be within a distance of 10 meters (30 feet) from each other. Also, make sure your iPad doesn't share its mobile data, and your Mac doesn't share its internet connection.
4) Connect using USB:
To use Sidecar with USB, make sure your iPad trusts your Mac. You can do that in the Finder on your Mac.
5) Current macOS Version:
Make sure your Mac has the latest macOS version to prevent technical problems. To find out more about your Mac, click on the Apple menu and choose "About This Mac." Before using Sidecar, make sure to download and install any available updates.
6) Suitability:
It's also important to ensure that your Mac and iPad are compatible with Sidecar. Make sure to visit the Apple website to confirm if your device is compatible with Sidecar. Not all Apple devices meet the necessary hardware requirements.
Use Sidecar to boost productivity by using your iPad as a second screen for your Mac. Before using Sidecar, make sure your Apple devices meet the requirements: the latest macOS version, compatible Apple devices, and wireless or USB connectivity.
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Simple Way to Set up Sidecar
Make sure your Mac and iPad are connected to the same Wi-Fi network and have Bluetooth turned on before using Sidecar. Also, make sure your devices meet the system requirements for Continuity features. Now, follow these steps to set up Sidecar:
- To access System Preferences on your Mac, click on the Apple menu.
- Go to the sidebar and select Displays.
- Open the "Add Display" menu on the right side, below your Mac's name. Next, choose your iPad from the list of devices.
- You can also use the Control Centre to set up Sidecar. Open Control Centre from the menu bar, go to Screen Mirroring and select your iPad.
After setting up Sidecar, the Screen Mirroring menu will show up in the menu bar on your Mac. From the Screen Mirroring menu, you can easily adjust your iPad settings. You have the option to use your iPad as a mirrored or separate display and to show or hide the sidebar and Touch Bar.
Options to Customize Sidecar
Once your iPad is set up as a second display for your Mac, you can easily customize the Sidecar options to suit your preferences. Here are the steps to follow:
- Access System Preferences on your Mac and select Displays from the sidebar.
- Choose your iPad's name from the right side.
- Select the "Use as" pop-up menu and pick how you want to use your iPad: as the main display, mirrored display, or extended display.
- Open the menu next to "Show Sidebar" and select your preferred position: left, right, or none.
- Open the menu next to "Show Touch Bar" and select where you want to see the Touch Bar: at the top, bottom, or not at all.
- Enable the "Double Tap on Apple Pencil" option to use the double-tap feature on the Apple Pencil. This feature lets you switch between drawing tools in certain apps.
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Tasks to Perform Using Sidecar
1) Transfer Windows Between Mac and iPad:
Sidecar enables you to utilize your iPad as an additional screen for your Mac. Moving windows between devices allows for efficient multitasking on different projects.
2) Use the Sidebar and Touch Bar on iPad:
With Sidecar, you can access the sidebar and Touch Bar on your iPad. With this feature, you can easily access menu commands, the Dock, the onscreen keyboard, and other shortcuts.
3) Use Apple Pencil on iPad:
If you have an Apple Pencil, you can use it on your iPad to select items, switch drawing tools, and perform various tasks. Sidecar simplifies creative work by turning your iPad into a drawing tablet.
4) Use Gestures on iPad:
On iPad, Sidecar lets you use simple gestures like tapping, swiping, scrolling, and zooming. It's also easier to work on papers and spreadsheets when you can enter and change text with your thumbs.
5) Switch Between Mac Desktop and iPad:
Sidecar allows you to switch between your Mac desktop and iPad easily. You can easily work on multiple projects and tasks without needing to switch devices frequently.
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Conclusion
Sidecar is a useful feature that helps you work on multiple projects at the same time using your Mac and iPad. If you work in creative fields like graphic design, writing, or development, Sidecar can improve your workflow and productivity. Give it a try today and see the advantages of this amazing feature!
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I display my iPad screen on my Mac?
To display your iPad screen on a Mac or TV, you have to make sure your iPad is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your Apple TV, AirPlay-compatible smart TV, or Mac. After that, you have to access the Control Centre on your iPad. Click on it and then select your Mac or TV as the device to play the content on.
How can I connect my iPad to use it as a second monitor with a cable?
Connect a USB-C Display AV Adapter or USB-C VGA Multi-port Adapter to the charging port on the iPad. Use an HDMI or VGA cable to connect to the adapter. Attach the opposite end of the cable to the screen, TV, or projector. Now follow the given instructions, and that's it!