Universal Control Hardware Requirements for macOS 13

Apple's Universal Control allows users to seamlessly control multiple Macs and iPads using a single keyboard, mouse, or trackpad. To use this feature on macOS 13 Ventura, your devices must meet specific hardware specifications, run compatible operating systems, and satisfy key wireless connectivity requirements. This guide details the exact Mac and iPad models supported along with the essential hardware criteria needed to enable Universal Control.

Supported Mac Models

To run Universal Control on macOS 13 Ventura, your Mac must be one of the following models:

• MacBook: 2016 and later
• MacBook Air: 2018 and later
• MacBook Pro: 2016 and later
• Mac mini: 2018 and later
• iMac: Late 2015 (27-inch Retina 5K) and 2017 or later
• iMac Pro: 2017
• Mac Pro: 2019 and later
• Mac Studio: 2022 and later

Supported Companion iPad Models

If you are pairing your macOS 13 Mac with an iPad, the iPad must be running iPadOS 15.4 or later and belong to one of the following hardware generations:

• iPad Pro: All models
• iPad Air: 3rd generation and later
• iPad: 6th generation and later
• iPad mini: 5th generation and later

Connectivity and Wireless Prerequisites

Universal Control requires specific hardware radios and states to establish communication between devices:

• Bluetooth and Wi-Fi: Both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth must be enabled on all connected devices.
• Proximity: Devices must be within 10 meters (30 feet) of each other.
• Handoff: Handoff must be switched on across all devices. On macOS 13, this is found in System Settings > General > AirDrop & Handoff.
• No Shared Connections: Neither device can be actively sharing its cellular or internet connection (Personal Hotspot must be disabled).

Wired Connection Alternative

Universal Control can also function over a physical USB cable instead of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. To use a wired connection, you must connect the devices via USB and select Trust This Computer on the iPad when prompted.