Control Mac via iPad - so it'll work

If you want to control your Mac or MacBook via the iPhone or iPad, there are several ways to do this. We present two options.

Control Mac for free via iPhone & iPad

The easiest and above all free of charge is the remote control with a small tool from Google.

1. Download and install the Google Chrome browser and the Chrome Remote Desktop tool on your Mac.
2. Download the Chrome Remote Desktop App for the iPhone and iPad and start the application.
3. If you select your Mac from the list, authentication will be performed the first time you connect. All you have to do is enter the code displayed on the Mac in the app.
4. The entire screen content is now transferred to the iPhone. You can also use the mouse and keyboard here.
5. Note: In order to establish a connection between Mac and iPhone, the two devices must be on the same network. If you start the app on your iPhone, the transfer starts immediately. On the Mac, however, only a hint is displayed. You don't need to start or use the Google Chrome browser.

iPhone & iPad: remote control Mac via VNC connection

Alternatively, your Mac can also be controlled remotely using a VNC tool with a suitable app. To do this, you first have to prepare the Mac for VNC access:

1. Click on the Apple icon in the top left of the menu bar and select "System Preferences".
2. Under the "Approval" category, you will find "Screen approval" on the left. Activate this option.
3. Then assign a password for access. This is the only way to keep your computer protected.
4. Now you only need a suitable app. The VNC Viewer and Mocha VNC are suitable for this.
5. Use the VNC Viewer, tap the plus button in the top right corner and enter the IP address of your Mac here. You can then establish the connection.
6. Note: If you do not know your IP address, you will find suitable instructions here.

In the next practical tip, we will show you how to use WhatsApp on Mac.