What is Universal Control, a New macOS Monterey Feature
Anyone who has interacted with Apple's series of smart devices knows that the company is working hard on making these devices work seamlessly with one another. While Apple devices have always shared features with one another, the process was not always seamless. One of the first major changes in this aspect was the introduction of the Continuity Camera. This utility enables users to scan documents and pictures with their iPhone or iPad. The images are then available for editing and use on their Mac.
The Sidecar is another useful utility, which enables you to turn your iPad into a secondary screen or drawing tablet. However, this feature has one downside – it turns your iPad's interface into a Mac one. However, macOS Monterey introduces a brand new feature, which resolves this issue and introduces additional content - Universal Control.
What is Universal Control?
Universal Control is the newest feature in macOS Monterey, and it has been overlooked by many users. However, if you own both an iPad and a Mac, then its functionality is likely to be a pleasant surprise. By using Universal Control, you can control both of these devices by using the same keyboard and mouse. Previously, you will need to manually switch between devices. But this is not everything, Universal Control allows you to use your iPad as a secondary or extended screen – without forcing you to use Mac's interface. This makes iPad's apps and interface available on your Mac as well.
The requirements to use Universal Control are also very easy to meet. You need to have all your devices using the same WiFi network and iCloud account. Their Bluetooth modules must also be turned on. If these conditions are met, bringing your iPad close to your Mac should activate the feature immediately and prompt you to use it.
Apart from allowing you to use the iPad and Mac apps across devices, you will also be able to seamlessly move files from one device to another through a simple drag-and-drop movement.
