Use iPad As A Second Display or Mirror for Mac with Sidecar
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How to Use iPad As A Second Display or Mirror for Mac with Sidecar

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By Vineet Maheshwari Add a Comment

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How to Use Sidecar To Use iPad As A Second Screen or Mirror for MacSidecar system requirements
As a Mac user, sometimes I got annoyed by switching between some tools and tabs while working on some important stuff. At the time, I sometimes wonder what if could add one more screen to keep my work efficiency up. But after updating to the latest macOS 10.15 Cataline, I impressed with the new Sidecar feature which allows you to use iPad as a second screen of Mac.

Yes, you heard it right! Apple introduced the Sidecar iPad app to the Mac OS, which lets users extend their Mac by turning an iPad into a second display or use it as a tablet pad with the Apple Pencil. Isn’t it interesting? I guess yes as you it will help some users to work more efficiently. So if you have upgraded your Mac to the latest macOS Cataline, then here’s how to use iPad as a second screen for Mac using Sidecar!

How to Use Sidecar To Use iPad As A Second Screen or Mirror for Mac

Before you go ahead to the tutorial, you should know some Sidecar system requirements.

Sidecar system requirements

Mac using macOS Catalina

  • MacBook Pro introduced in 2016 or later
  • MacBook introduced in 2016 or later
  • MacBook Air introduced in 2018 or later
  • iMac introduced in 2016 or later, plus iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, Late 2015)
  • iMac Pro
  • Mac mini introduced in 2018 or later
  • Mac Pro introduced in 2019

iPad using iPadOS 13

  • iPad Pro: all models
  • iPad (6th generation) or later
  • iPad mini (5th generation)
  • iPad Air (3rd generation)

Other needs

  • You must be signed in to iCloud with the same Apple ID on both devices.
  • Both devices have Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Handoff turned on.
  • Both devices are within 10 meters (30 feet) of each other.
  • The iPad is not sharing its cellular connection, and the Mac is not sharing its Internet connection.

Step #1: First, connect your iPad to your Mac with the charging cable.

Step #2: Click the AirPlay icon in the menu bar on your Mac, then choose the option to connect to your iPad.

Or use Sidecar preferences to connect.

Choose Apple menu > System Preferences, then click Sidecar. These preferences are available only on computers that support Sidecar.

Show Sidebar: Show the sidebar on the left or right side of your iPad screen, or turn it off.

Show Touch Bar: Show the Touch Bar on the bottom or top of your iPad screen, or turn it off.

Enable double tap on Apple Pencil: Allow apps that support this feature to perform custom actions when you double-tap on the side of your Apple Pencil (2nd generation).

Connect to: Choose an iPad to connect to, or click Disconnect to stop using Sidecar.

Step #3: Now, your iPad will show an extension of your Mac desktop. You can move windows to it and use it like any other display.

Step #4: Next, you should return to the AirPlay menu, which is a blue rectangle while using Sidecar. Choose the option to mirror your Mac display so that both screens show the same content,

Step #5: To end your Sidecar session, return to the AirPlay menu and choose the option to disconnect. Or click the Disconnect button in the sidebar on your iPad.

Furthermore, there are many other options; you can use to manage both screen and Sidecar.

Even you can use Sidecar to get Touch Bar on your iPad screen even if your Mac doesn’t have a Touch Bar. It works just like the Touch Bar on Mac, and you can tap its controls with either your finger or Apple Pencil.

Also, the new Sidecar feature can be used for scrolling and other actions like multi-touch gestures on the iPad. Here are some gestures:

Scroll: Swipe with two fingers.

Copy: Pinch in with three fingers.

Cut: Pinch in with three fingers twice.

Paste: Pinch out with three fingers.

Undo: Swipe left with three fingers, or double-tap with three fingers.

Redo: Swipe right with three fingers.

Another great thing even you can use the stylish Apple Pencil on your iPad to perform some normal tasks while using it as a second screen of Mac. Also, you are not restricted to switch between apps on iPad apps.

I hope you followed the guide carefully and now you know the way to use iPad as a second screen for Mac with Sidecar on macOS Cataline. I personally, I really enjoyed this feature as it helped me to do my work quickly and efficiently. Once after using this feature, please do not forget to share your experience with us in the comment box.
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By Vineet Maheshwari
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Vineet Maheshwari is a passionate blogger and relationship oriented digital marketing consultant with over 10 years of experience in SEO, PPC management, web analytics, domain investing, affiliate marketing and digital strategy. He has helped high tech brands connect with customers in an engaging manner, thereby ensuring that high quality leads are generated over time.
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