Unable to use iPad as second screen for Mac mini

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Level 1

4 points

Unable to use iPad as second screen for Mac mini

I have no option in 'displays' to 'add' a device as I have seen on YouTube and on the help page.

iPad and mac mini are on the same network, signed into the same appleID and are next to each other. I have reset both and updated, no luck.

Even holding option in displays window and clicking 'detect displays' doesn't do anything.

Tried connecting with cable, nothing.

screen mirror works fine the other way, I can share my ipad screen with the mac and see it on my monitor, but cannot use the ipad as an extended display.

[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Mac mini, macOS 15.3

Posted on Feb 8, 2025 09:57 AM

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Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

Servant of Cats

Level 7

30,953 points

Feb 8, 2025 03:31 PM in response to finian99

Which Mac and version of macOS?

Which iPad and version of iOS / iPadOS?

Do both meet the requirements listed here?

Continuity features and requirements for Apple devices - Apple Support

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Answer 2

rkaufmann87

Level 10

148,074 points

Feb 8, 2025 02:09 PM in response to finian99

Then. you likely DID NOT follow the steps in:

If Sidecar isn’t working

Make sure you’re signed into both devices with the same Apple Account on both devices.
Make sure that both devices have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth turned on and are on the same Wi-Fi network.
Make sure that your devices are within 30 feet (10 meters) of one another.
For more troubleshooting tips, see the Sidecar system requirements in the Apple Support article Use an iPad as a second display for a Mac.

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Answer 3

Feb 9, 2025 12:17 PM in response to finian99

finian99 wrote:

mac mini 2024 M4 Pro

sequoia 15.3

Ipad 5th gen ipadOS 16.7.10 (this is apparently the problem, only 6th gen or higher allowed)

I can screen mirror from my ipad to the mac so I assumed they were compatible

That Mac supports AirPlay to Mac. That iPad doesn't fully support it. However,

"You can AirPlay to Mac at lower video resolutions from older iPhone, iPad, and Mac models and operating systems if the AirPlay Receiver setting is turned on and the adjacent "Allow AirPlay for" setting is configured to allow AirPlay either for everyone or for anyone on the same network."

Continuity features and requirements for Apple devices - Apple Support

I assume that this is because AirPlay from various Apple devices to Apple TV set-top boxes has been around for a very long time – much longer than either AirPlay to Mac, or Sidecar.

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