FAQ
Questions, answered plainly.
What is WorkPane?
A per-window remote desktop for Mac and iPad. Each Mac window streams to your iPad as its own Stage Manager window: live video, sound, and touch, over your own network. See How It Works →
How is WorkPane different from Sidecar or Universal Control?
Sidecar gives your Mac one more display; WorkPane gives your iPad the Mac's windows. If you want a big extra monitor at your desk, use Sidecar; it's built in. If you want individual Mac windows living alongside iPad apps, that's WorkPane. Compare →
How is it different from Jump Desktop, Parsec, or Chrome Remote Desktop?
Those stream your whole desktop as one video; WorkPane streams windows. Each one opens as a native iPad window, and quality follows the window you're using instead of averaging across the whole screen. Compare →
What do I need to run it?
A Mac on macOS 26 or later, an iPad on iPadOS 26 or later (M-series recommended), and the same network, or your own VPN for remote. Requirements →
Does it work when I'm away from my Mac?
Yes, with your own VPN. Tailscale's free tier works; the guide takes about ten minutes. A hands-free option that needs no VPN is planned. Remote access →
Is my screen sent to the cloud?
No. Your Mac and iPad stream directly to each other over your own network. Unplug your router from the internet and WorkPane keeps working. Privacy →
How does pairing keep the connection safe?
The first connection needs the six-digit PIN your Mac shows, so only someone at your Mac can pair. Every stream is end-to-end encrypted, and pairings are revocable from the Mac. How It Works →
Can I use my iPad's camera and microphone in Mac apps?
Yes. Pick WorkPane Camera or WorkPane Microphone in any Mac app; the iPad streams while the app uses it, and stops when it's done. Camera & Microphone →
How many windows can I stream at once?
As many as you open; each streams on its own, and quality follows the one you're using. Per-Window Streaming →
Can two iPads connect at once?
No. One iPad at a time, by design, today. Simpler to secure, simpler to reason about. Requirements →
Can someone use the Mac while I'm connected?
They'll see the windows you're using move; it's your real Mac being used, not a copy. WorkPane is built for one person's Mac, not for sharing a machine. How It Works →
How much does it cost?
Nothing during the open beta. Pricing will be announced before general availability. Join the Beta →
How do I uninstall it completely?
From the Mac's Setup Guide; the uninstaller shows you the complete list of what it will remove, then removes it. Uninstall guide →
What's planned next?
Planned: hands-free remote access, with no VPN to set up. No dates; it ships when it's ready. Releases →
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