Wondering how to use Sidecar in macOS Monterey? Here’s how you can use the feature to extend your Mac display to your iPad.
Sidecar is now a slightly hidden feature in macOS Monterey, here’s how you can use it
Sidecar is an amazing feature that lets you use your (compatible) iPad as a secondary display for your (compatible) Mac. Just click the AirPlay icon in the menu bar, select the iPad that you own and is connected to the same network as your Mac, and away you go.
Its very simple to use except its not in macOS Monterey.
With Apple’s latest desktop operating system, things are a bit different. In fact, so different that you might think Apple has done away with Sidecar altogether. But believe me, it’s still there, just not as easily accessible as in Catalina.
Tutorial
Note: To use Sidecar, make sure you meet the following requirements:
- Your Mac and iPad must be signed in to the same Apple ID.
- No Internet Sharing is enabled on iPad or Mac.
- Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and Handoff are enabled
Step 1. Click the Control center icon in the top menu bar.
Step 2. Now click on the display icon to reveal more details.
Step 3. Simply select your iPad once it appears. Your iPad will instantly turn into a secondary display for Mac.
You have the option to customize the display orientation directly from System Preferences. If you prefer the iPad to be on the left side of your Mac, it’s best to change the orientation.
That AirPlay icon in Catalina was a solid reminder that Sidecar existed and I can use it anytime the need arises. With macOS Monterey, it’s almost as if Apple doesn’t want you to use the feature and instead wants to push everyone to Universal Control. But extending the display from the Mac to an iPad makes so much sense in many workflows.
Anyway, if you’ve ever wondered where Sidecar went with the latest version of macOS, now you know how to get there with just a few more clicks. The functionality is there, works absolutely reliably, except it’s not so noticeable as before.
For more useful guides and tutorials, go to this section.