OS X Mavericks: How Multi-Monitoring works with AirPlay

One of the new functions of OS X Mavericks is multi-monitoring. This also works via Airplay on the Apple TV. Not only can you connect multiple monitors by cable, but you can also use an Apple TV to connect your television. The whole thing then works completely wirelessly and easily. We show you how to connect the devices and what you need to consider.

Mac OS X Mavericks - What is Multi-Monitoring?

With Multi-Monitoring you can enjoy the benefits of multiple screens - provided you have "OS X Mavericks" installed.

• Contents on the two monitors are displayed independently of each other. That means you can activate different full screen apps on both monitors.
• Changing the work area on one monitor does not change anything on the second monitor.
• In Mission Control you can choose how the monitor should be expanded or whether it should be mirrored.

Use multi-monitoring via Airplay on the TV

If you don't have a second monitor at hand, you can easily use your TV as an additional screen.

• This function requires a second generation Apple TV that is connected to a television and a Mac from 2011 or later. Both the Apple TV and the Mac must be connected to the same WiFi network.
• The function extends the Airplay mirroring that has been possible since "OS X Mountain Lion" - the mirroring of Mac content on a television via Apple TV.
• After you have connected all devices to the WLAN, the Airplay icon appears in the menu bar of the Mac. Select your Apple TV from the drop-down menu.
• The monitor can either be expanded or mirrored. When you expand the monitor, the TV becomes a second screen. When you flip the image, the same content appears on both screens.
• A disadvantage when working with the television is that the mouse pointer reacts somewhat delayed on it.

Another feature of OS X Mavericks is the iCloud keychain. You can find out how this works in this practical tip.