Apple has introduced an exciting feature for macOS and iOS users with the latest developer betas of macOS Sequoia and iOS 18, which now include the ability to mirror an iPhone to a Mac desktop. This feature, which was highlighted at the Worldwide Developers Conference 2024, is currently available to developers, with public betas expected in July.
The iPhone mirroring feature allows users to display and interact with their iPhone screen directly on their Mac. This functionality is particularly useful for multitasking and enhances productivity by allowing seamless interaction between devices. However, the feature will be delayed in the EU due to compliance concerns with the Digital Markets Act, which Apple states could compromise product integrity and user data security.
For those with access to the developer betas, the mirroring functionality requires both devices to be logged into the same Apple account and connected via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. The mirrored iPhone will operate at 60 fps, with orientation adjustments based on app usage, and it promises to consume approximately the same amount of battery as using the iPhone directly.
Future updates to this feature are expected to include the ability to drag and drop files between the Mac and iPhone, potentially supporting third-party apps. Despite the excitement, Apple has acknowledged several known issues in the beta versions, such as limitations with lock screen apps and Universal Clipboard during mirroring. These issues are expected to be resolved in future updates.
Users interested in trying out this feature should be aware of the risks associated with installing beta software, as it may contain bugs and could potentially disrupt normal device operation. The full public release, along with additional mirroring capabilities, is eagerly anticipated later this year following the beta testing phase.
