macOS 12 Monterey: Universal Control Enhances Continuity

macOS 12 Monterey: Introducing Universal Control

At today’s WWDC conference, Apple introduced macOS 12 Monterey, the latest iteration of their desktop operating system.

A key addition within this macOS update is Universal Control. This feature expands upon the Continuity functionality initially presented in OS X Yosemite.

Expanding Device Connectivity

For some time, users have been able to begin reading an article on an iPhone and continue seamlessly on a MacBook, or transfer links between an iPad and an iMac via copy and paste.

However, Universal Control significantly enhances these capabilities, offering a more integrated experience.

Seamless Multi-Device Navigation

Universal Control enables the use of a single mouse and keyboard to control multiple Apple devices simultaneously.

Demonstrations showcased the feature operating across more than two devices, including an iPad, MacBook, and iMac, allowing for fluid transitions between them.

Users can now drag and drop files between devices with ease, which is particularly beneficial for tasks like video editing in Final Cut Pro using a multi-screen configuration.

Building on Existing Technologies

While the core concept isn’t entirely novel – similar functionality has been available through third-party applications – Apple’s implementation offers a native solution.

In 2019, Apple launched Sidecar, which enabled iPads to function as secondary displays for MacBooks and iMacs.

Universal Control vs. Sidecar

Universal Control represents an advancement over Sidecar, and potentially diminishes the need for it.

It allows connection between any Apple devices, not solely iPads.

Although this update may not represent a radical departure from existing technology, it provides a valuable enhancement to established features.