Apple's Recent Releases Introduce Universal Command and Permitting iPhone Unlock with a Face Mask
Getting your hands on Universal Control, Apple's long-awaited feature, is now a reality! With the release of macOS Monterey 12.3 and iPadOS 15.4, you can seamlessly use a single input device across multiple Macs and iPads. I had the pleasure of testing the beta, and let me tell you, it worked like a charm.
To successfully leverage Universal Control, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, make sure your devices are compatible with the latest versions of macOS Monterey and iPadOS. For Macs, that means any model from 2016 onwards, including MacBook, MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, iMac, Mac Mini, and Mac Pro (2019 and later). For iPads, it's the iPad Pro, 6th generation iPad, iPad Air 3rd generation, or iPad mini 5th generation and later.
Secondly, all devices must be signed in with the same Apple ID and two-factor authentication enabled. Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Handoff should also be enabled on all devices. The devices should be within 10 meters of each other and not share an internet connection or have hotspots enabled. Lastly, ensure your Mac isn't sleeping, and your iPad isn't locked.
Universal Control isn't perfect, though. It doesn't support iPhone devices, and there can be compatibility issues with certain file types and apps when it comes to drag-and-drop. Some multitouch gestures are also unavailable or slightly different on iPads, and the copy and paste feature in certain apps needs to be improved. Additionally, the cursor might exit one display and appear on another in an inconsistent position, so be prepared to adjust your display arrangement using your Mac's System Preferences.
However, with these caveats in mind, Universal Control can significantly enhance your workflow across multiple devices. Simply place your devices near each other and watch as your cursor effortlessly glides between the two. Universal Control allows you to easily drag-and-drop files, use a Mac keyboard and trackpad on your iPad, and so much more. It's as if your devices have been magically connected Platform 9 and 3/4-style!
macOS Monterey 12.3 also brings a few other goodies, such as 37 new emojis, enhancements to spatial audio, and a newer voice for Siri. iPadOS 15.4 and iOS 15.4, released in tandem, introduce the ability to use Face ID to unlock iPhones while wearing a mask, all available today with the latest update for your devices. So, why wait? Give Universal Control a try and revolutionize your digital workspace!
- With the advancement in tech and technology, the future of multitasking between Macs and iPads looks promising, thanks to Universal Control.
- After transferring my work from my Mac to my iPad using Universal Control, I was amazed at how seamless the process was.
- Although Universal Control isn't perfect and has its limitations, the possibility of using a mouse to navigate on my iPad in the future is fascinating.
- I'm excited about the future of tech and how features like Universal Control will continue to blur the lines between Macs and iPads, making our digital workspaces more efficient.
