At Apple’s Worldwide Developer Conference 2024, a standout feature was unveiled: iPhone Mirroring, now available with iOS 18 and MacOS Sequoia, enabling remote control of your iPhone from your Mac.
iPhone Mirroring is more than a convenience for when your phone is out of reach. It allows you to use apps like Instagram that work better on the phone than on the web, or check notifications discreetly at work without picking up your phone.
The mirroring feature lets you interact with your iPhone via a live window on your Mac, performing almost all tasks as if the phone were in your hand. This feature is active only when the iPhone is locked and not in use, enhancing security and preventing dual interactions. StandBy mode stays active if the phone is charging in horizontal orientation, allowing you to switch views smoothly.
Currently, iPhone Mirroring is available for users enrolled in the iOS 18 public beta or developers. Since it’s in beta, use caution and remember that you can downgrade to iOS 17 if needed.
Supported Devices:
- MacOS Sequoia: iMac (2019+), MacBook Air (2020+), MacBook Pro (2018+), Mac Studio (2022+), Mac mini (2018+), Mac Pro (2019+), iMac Pro (2017+)
- iOS 18: iPhone 11 and later, iPhone XS/XS Max, iPhone XR, iPhone SE (2nd generation+)
How to Start iPhone Mirroring:
- Sign in to your Apple Account on both devices in System Settings (Mac) and Settings (iPhone).
- Lock the iPhone if not already locked.
- Open the iPhone Mirroring app on a Mac running MacOS Sequoia.
- Enter your Mac login password or use Touch ID to start mirroring. Approve the connection on the iPhone for the first use.
Navigation:
- Keyboard Shortcuts:
- Command-1: Home screen
- Command-2: App Switcher
- Command-3: Spotlight Search
Control the iPhone interface using your Mac’s mouse and keyboard. Note that features relying on the accelerometer and the camera are not available during mirroring. However, FaceTime Audio calls can be received through Apple’s Continuity feature.
Both options highlight the ease and utility of iPhone Mirroring, enhancing productivity and convenience by bringing your iPhone’s functionality to your Mac.