iPad used as external screen switches between "Mirror or Extend" and "Link Keyboard and Mouse"

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iPad used as external screen switches between "Mirror or Extend" and "Link Keyboard and Mouse"

I use an iPad as an external screen in Sidecar mode. When it works, it works well, but every now and then, the iPad "flips" to "Link Keyboard and Mouse" mode, without me prompting to do that.

Then I have to go to the System Preferences again and change the iPad manually back to "Mirror or Extend" and rearrange all the windows.

I have not found out yet what prompts the iPad to go back to "Link Keyboard and Mouse" mode. It happens seemingly randomly.

I have the latest OS versions on all devices, the iPad is a large iPad Pro first version (but it also happens with my iPad Pro 2)

Thanks!

Posted on Oct 5, 2022 07:31 PM

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Answer 1

cburgdorfer Author

Level 1

25 points

Oct 29, 2022 10:45 PM in response to JessS19

Hello JessS19

Thanks for your answer. I still have the issue. I was hoping Ventura would fix it, but it still happens that my iPad seemingly randomly flips from "Mirror or extend" to "Link keyboard and mouse" ...

I'm using it via USB C and all devices are within the compatibility list above. Is there some sort of way to "avoid" the iPad from becoming linked perhaps?

Thanks for any advice.

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Answer 2

JessS19

Community Specialist

Oct 7, 2022 10:06 AM in response to cburgdorfer

Greetings, cburgdorfer.

It sounds like you are having a hard time with Sidecar. In order to resolve the issue, make sure you meet the following requirements:

“Sidecar system requirements

Sidecar works with these devices and operating systems.

macOS Catalina or later

MacBook Pro introduced in 2016 or later
MacBook introduced in 2016 or later
MacBook Air introduced in 2018 or later
iMac introduced in 2017 or later, or iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, Late 2015)
iMac Pro
Mac mini introduced in 2018 or later
Mac Pro introduced in 2019
Mac Studio

iPadOS 13 or later

iPad Pro (all models)
iPad (6th generation) or later
iPad mini (5th generation) or later
iPad Air (3rd generation) or later

Additional requirements

Both devices must be signed in with the same Apple ID using two-factor authentication. Sidecar does not support Managed Apple IDs.
To use Sidecar wirelessly, both devices must be within 10 meters (30 feet) of each other and have Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Handoff turned on. Your iPad must not be sharing its cellular connection and your Mac must not be sharing its internet connection.
To use Sidecar over USB, your iPad must be set to trust your Mac.” Use an iPad as a second display for a Mac

If so, isolate the issue by trying to duplicate the issue on another user on your Mac.Set up users, guests, and groups on Mac

We hope this helps!

Sincerely.

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Answer 3

Oct 30, 2022 07:13 AM in response to cburgdorfer

Thanks for getting back to us, cburgdorfer.

Let's try and narrow things down. Have you tried a different cable and made sure the cables used are certified? Identify counterfeit or uncertified Lightning connector accessories - Apple Support

Have you had a chance to try a new user account? This would help determine if an app or setting is causing the issue.

Try also safe mode:

How to use safe mode on your Mac - Apple Support

Let us know and we'll go from there.

Cheers!

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iPad used as external screen switches between "Mirror or Extend" and "Link Keyboard and Mouse"

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