Wirelessly Connecting and Controlling Two Macs with Universal Control

Advancements in technology have made it easier than ever to connect and control two Macs wirelessly. With the introduction of macOS 12.4 Monterey, Apple has included a feature called Universal Control that allows users to connect and control two Macs with just a pair of keyboard and trackpad. In this article, we will explore how you can use Universal Control to manage your devices seamlessly.

How to Connect and Control with Universal Control

Universal Control is specifically designed for users who manage multiple Macs and need to work on different devices without the hassle of switching devices manually. To begin, both Mac computers must be running the latest macOS 12.4 Monterey update and be on the same Wi-Fi network or connected to AirPlay. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Update macOS: Ensure both Macs are running the latest version of macOS 12.4 Monterey. You can check for updates in the 'App Store' application. Connect to the Same Wi-Fi: Make sure both Macs are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. You can manage Wi-Fi settings in the 'System Preferences' under the 'Network' tab. Control One Mac from the Other: On the device you want to control (let's call this the secondary Mac), go to the Magic Keyboard app, and select 'Connect to a Mac.' From there, you can select the primary Mac that will be managed. Share a Keyboard and Trackpad: On the primary Mac, you won't see a change, but on the secondary Mac, you will now have access to the keyboard and trackpad of the primary Mac. You can now move between screens and use both sets of input devices.

Remote Control a Nearby iPad with iPadOS 15.4

Universal Control is not limited to just Macs; you can also remotely control a nearby iPad running iPadOS 15.4. This feature opens up a whole new realm of possibilities, particularly in creative and collaborative work environments. Here's how iPadOS 15.4 integrates with Universal Control:

Update iPadOS: Ensure your iPad is running the latest version of iPadOS 15.4. You can check for updates in the 'App Store' application. Connect to the Same Wi-Fi: Make sure your iPad is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as the Macs you want to control. Setup Universal Control on iPad: On your iPad, go to 'Settings' > 'General' > 'Keyboard,' and then select 'Connect to a Mac.' Now, your iPad can receive keyboard and mouse input from the Macs on the network.

Benefits of Using Universal Control

Using Universal Control offers several benefits, including:

Increased Productivity: You can work on multiple screens and devices simultaneously without needing to switch between physical devices. Enhanced Collaboration: In a team setting, you can collaboratively work on projects while keeping devices in different locations. Improved Accessibility: Users with mobility issues or who use assistive technologies can use their preferred input devices across multiple devices easily.

FAQs

Q: Do both Macs need to be powered on to use Universal Control?
A: Yes, both Macs must be powered on and connected to a Wi-Fi network to use Universal Control.

Q: Can I use Universal Control with multiple Macs?
A: Yes, Universal Control supports the connection and control of up to two Macs. If you need to control more than two Macs, you can use third-party software or AppleScript to create custom solutions.

Q: What if I lose Wi-Fi connection during the session?
A: If you lose Wi-Fi connection, Universal Control will automatically stop working. You can resume the connection when Wi-Fi is re-established.

Conclusion

Universal Control is a powerful feature that greatly enhances the productivity and versatility of Apple devices. With just a few clicks, you can wirelessly connect and control two Macs or an iPad. Whether you're a professional, a student, or anyone who uses multiple devices, Universal Control makes your work and personal life more efficient and straightforward.