Sidecar is a macOS feature that enables you to extend or mirror your Mac’s display to an iPad. This functionality is particularly useful for professionals who need additional screen real estate or prefer a portable secondary display. Sidecar works wirelessly or via a wired connection, depending on your setup and preferences.
To use Sidecar, your Mac must be running macOS Catalina or later, and your iPad must be on iPadOS 13 or later. Both devices should be signed in to the same Apple ID and have Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Handoff enabled.
Setting Up Sidecar
To set up Sidecar, follow these steps:
- Ensure your Mac and iPad meet the system requirements mentioned above.
- Connect both devices to the same Wi-Fi network.
- On your Mac, click the AirPlay icon in the menu bar (it looks like a rectangle with a triangle at the bottom).
- Select your iPad from the list of available devices.
- Choose whether to extend or mirror your display.
If you prefer a wired connection, connect your iPad to your Mac using a USB-C or Lightning cable. This method often provides a more stable connection and charges your iPad simultaneously.
Using Sidecar for Extended Display
When using Sidecar to extend your Mac’s display, your iPad acts as a secondary screen. This setup is ideal for multitasking, such as keeping reference materials on the iPad while working on your Mac.
To arrange your displays:
- Go to System Settings > Displays on your Mac.
- Click the Arrangement tab.
- Drag the white menu bar to the display you want as your primary screen.
- Adjust the position of the displays to match their physical arrangement.
You can also use the Sidebar and Touch Bar on your iPad for quick access to tools and shortcuts.
Using Sidecar for Mirroring
Mirroring your Mac’s display to your iPad is useful for presentations or sharing your screen with others. To enable mirroring:
- Click the AirPlay icon in the menu bar.
- Select your iPad and choose Mirror Display.
Your iPad will now show the same content as your Mac’s primary display.
Troubleshooting Sidecar
If Sidecar isn’t working as expected, try these troubleshooting steps:
- Ensure both devices are updated to the latest software versions.
- Check that Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Handoff are enabled on both devices.
- Restart your Mac and iPad.
- Disconnect and reconnect the devices, either wirelessly or via cable.
- If using a wired connection, try a different cable or port.
If issues persist, consult Apple’s support documentation or contact their customer service for further assistance.
Optimizing Sidecar Performance
To ensure the best performance when using Sidecar:
- Keep your devices close to each other to maintain a strong wireless connection.
- Use a wired connection for tasks requiring low latency, such as video editing.
- Close unnecessary apps on both devices to free up system resources.
By following these tips, you can maximize the functionality and efficiency of Sidecar.