Universal Control: Drag and Drop Files Between Mac and iPad

Yes, you can transfer files between a Mac and an iPad using drag-and-drop via Universal Control in macOS 13 (Ventura). Universal Control allows a single mouse, trackpad, and keyboard to work across both devices, enabling seamless file sharing without using AirDrop or cloud storage. This guide covers the requirements, setup process, and the exact steps to transfer your files.

Prerequisites for Universal Control

To use Universal Control between a Mac running macOS 13 and an iPad, ensure both devices meet the following conditions:

  • Operating System: macOS 13 (Ventura) or later on your Mac, and iPadOS 15.4 or later (preferably iPadOS 16 or later) on your iPad.
  • Apple ID: Both devices must be signed in to the same Apple ID using two-factor authentication.
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Handoff must be turned on on both devices.
  • Proximity: The Mac and iPad must be within 10 meters (30 feet) of each other.
  • Internet Sharing: Neither device can be sharing its cellular or internet connection.

How to Enable Universal Control

On macOS 13:

  1. Open the Apple menu and select System Settings.
  2. Click Displays in the sidebar.
  3. Click the Advanced button at the bottom of the window.
  4. Turn on Allow your pointer and keyboard to move between any nearby Mac or iPad.
  5. Click Done.

On iPad:

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Tap General, then tap AirPlay & Handoff.
  3. Toggle on Cursor and Keyboard.

How to Drag and Drop Files

Once Universal Control is active, arrange your displays in System Settings > Displays on your Mac so the pointer moves naturally across the edges of the screens.

From Mac to iPad

Because iPadOS manages files differently than macOS, you cannot drop a file directly onto the iPad Home Screen.

  1. On your iPad, open the app that supports the file you want to transfer (such as the Files app, Photos, Notes, or Pages).
  2. On your Mac, click and hold the file you want to transfer.
  3. Drag the file across the edge of the Mac screen over to the iPad display.
  4. Release the file inside the open app or a specific folder within the Files app.

From iPad to Mac

  1. On your iPad, navigate to the file in the Files app or select an item in Photos.
  2. Tap and hold the item, then drag it across the screen toward the Mac.
  3. Move the pointer onto the Mac display.
  4. Drop the file directly onto the Desktop, into a Finder window, or into an open document.