macOS Sidecar Frequently Asked Questions

Description: This article contains some of the most frequently asked questions about the Sidecar app that comes with macOS Catalina from Winter 2019.

Q: What is the Sidecar app?
A: Sidecar is a new app that arrived with macOS 10.15 Catalina. It allows you to connect the Mac computer with a compatible iPad to use it as a secondary display for that computer.

Q: What models of computer can use the Sidecar app?
A: Any Mac computer model released in 2016 and later can use the Sidecar app. Here is a list from Apple regarding this information: https://support.apple.com/en-afri/HT210380#systemrequirements.

Q: What models of iPad can work with the Sidecar app?
A: Any iPad that is compatible with the Apple Pencil can run the Sidecar feature. This will include all iPad Pros, 6th gen iPads and later, 5th gen iPad minis and later and 3rd gen iPad Airs and later.

Q: Does my iPad have to be wired to my computer to use Sidecar?
A: No, you can wirelessly connect the iPad to your computer to use the sidebar and it will work up to 30 feet away.

Q: What else will I need to make sure Sidecar will work?
A: Both the Mac computer and the iPad will need to have wifi and Bluetooth turned on. They will also need to be signed in with the same Apple ID.

Q: How do I transfer windows between the two displays?
A: You can simply drag the window you need transferred over to the iPad display. Alternatively, you can also hover your cursor over the Full Screen option on the window and an option to transfer will show up.

Q: How do I use certain keyboard commands on the iPad display?
A: The iPad has a side bar that will have specific keyboard functions, including command, option, etc. You can press these on the iPad screen to use them as needed.

Q: Can I adjust Sidecar settings?
A: Yes, you can change your Sidecar settings by going into your Apple menu to System Preferences. From there, you will be able to find the Sidecar option among them to change Sidecar settings from there.

Q: Can I mirror my Mac computer display on the iPad?
A: Yes, you can change it from an extended display to a mirrored display from the Sidecar icon on the upper right corner of the screen.

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