Comments
How to Set Up and Use Universal Control in macOS Monterey
Edited 8 months ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team
macOS MontereyUniversal ControlmacOSAppleFeaturesiCloudSetupMultiple DevicesSeamlessWorkflowProductivity
This content is available in 7 different language
Universal Control is one of the best features of macOS Monterey, which was introduced by Apple as a part of its continued commitment to create seamless integration across different devices. Universal Control allows you to control multiple Apple devices located near each other using a single keyboard and mouse. This feature is especially useful for users who are part of Apple's ecosystem, who own multiple devices such as iPads and Macs. It boosts productivity by allowing easy transitions and transfer actions such as dragging files between devices and moving the cursor on the screen.
A step-by-step guide to setting up Universal Control
1. Ensure compatibility
Your devices must be compatible for Universal Control to work. You need:
- A Mac running macOS Monterey or later.
- iPad running iPadOS 15 or later.
- Both devices must be signed in with the same Apple ID using two-factor authentication.
- Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Handoff must be enabled on both devices.
- The devices should be located within 10 metres (30 feet) of each other.
2. Set up on your Mac
To set up Universal Control, follow these steps:
Enable encryption:
- Open System Preferences by clicking the Apple menu and selecting it from the dropdown.
- Navigate to the display.
- Click the Universal Control button on the sidebar.
- Make sure all three checkboxes are selected:
- Allow your cursor and keyboard to move between any nearby Macs or iPads, which is the main setting for Universal Control.
- Connect a nearby Mac or iPad by pushing it from the edge of a display, allowing for a seamless transition when devices are detected.
- Once established, automatically reconnects to any nearby Mac or iPad, ensuring continued connectivity.
- Once these are selected, close System Preferences.
3. Set up on your iPad
Next, make sure the iPad is ready for universal control:
- On your iPad, open Settings.
- Go to General > AirPlay & Handoff.
- Check that the Cursor and Keyboard (Beta) option is enabled. This allows the Mac to use your device with the iPad.
4. Connect the device
Once both devices are set up, you can now make the connection:
Place your devices next to each other. Simply push the cursor to the side of the Mac screen where the iPad is placed. If placed correctly and within range, the connection should be established, and you'll see the cursor move to the new device, the iPad.
Using universal controls
Sharing input devices
With devices connected via Universal Control, you can do the following:
- Use the keyboard connected to your Mac to type directly on the iPad.
- Use the trackpad or mouse to interact with the iPad interface.
Interacting with files
One of the main advantages of Universal Control is the easy transfer of files between devices. For example, you can:
- Drag files from a folder on your Mac and drop them into an app on your iPad. This is especially useful when transferring images or documents.
- Similarly, files can be moved from the iPad back to your Mac.
Troubleshooting common problems
If Universal Control doesn't work as expected, here are some common solutions:
1. Check connectivity
Make sure both devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network and have Bluetooth turned on. Both devices must also be signed in to the same Apple ID.
2. Update the software
Verify that both devices are running the latest version of their respective operating systems, macOS for Mac and iPadOS for iPad.
3. Reboot the device
Sometimes, simply restarting one or both devices can resolve connectivity issues.
4. Reset settings
If Universal Control settings have been changed, consider resetting them by deselecting and then reselecting the settings in the Display and Handoff sections mentioned earlier.
Benefits and drawbacks
Benefits
- Seamless workflow across Apple devices.
- Greater productivity with shared input mechanisms.
- Fast file transfers save time.
Disadvantages
- Limited to Apple devices with certain system requirements.
- Dependent on a strong and stable network connection.
Conclusion
Universal Control in macOS Monterey is a powerful tool for those involved in the Apple ecosystem. By simplifying cross-device interactions, it boosts productivity and enhances the user experience. Although initially requiring specific configuration and compatibility requirements, its benefits in terms of workflow efficiency are substantial, reflecting Apple's continued effort towards creating an interconnected digital workspace.
Remember to check regularly for updates from Apple, as they may further improve this feature, add more functionality or extend its current capabilities. Universal Control is a significant leap forward towards the future of computing, integrating the device more naturally into your daily digital activities.
If you find anything wrong with the article content, you can