Apple’s Universal Control Feature For macOS, iPadOS Delayed Until Spring 2022

Last Updated on July 11, 2022 by Anu Joy

Apple recently launched the macOS 12.1 update which fixed some major bugs, and also rolled out new features to MacBooks. However, one promised feature was sorely missing—the Universal Control. Apple’s website has now been updated to indicate that this feature will come in spring.

The iPhone maker had previously hinted that it would launch Universal Control “later this fall”. This feature was first announced at the WWDC, back in June. The company had showed it off by placing an iPad next to a MacBook, and moving the mouse cursor back and forth between the two screens. Universal Control will let you use a single mouse and keyboard or trackpad to control multiple Macs and iPads.

This new feature will allow you to use it across a Mac and up to two other macOS or iPadOS devices. This would provide a more seamless experience while using your Apple devices. It also helps you leverage your iPad as a secondary display for your MacBook. Furthermore, it lets you use your Apple Pencil on macOS apps via the iPad screen.

Universal Control will tie Apple’s ecosystem together by providing a smooth experience while using its devices. It is reported that the feature will not require setting up. It will be set up automatically when two supported devices will be held in close proximity.

The delay in releasing Universal Control is surely disappointing, but it’s likely that Apple is ironing out a few bugs in the meantime. It is to be noted that the Cupertino-based tech company has a similar offering called ‘Sidecar’. Though it is said to have its quirks, you can use Sidecar until Universal Control finally makes an appearance in spring. And if you know your way around GitHub and terminal commands, you can partially enable Universal Control in macOS Monterey beta 5. This will involve making some changes to internal files in the operating system. So, proceed with caution, since modifying system files could cause some issues.   

What do you think of Apple’s Universal Control feature? Let us know in the comments.