How to unlock the power of the Apple ecosystem

rafal-jedrzejek

Perhaps one of the most compelling reasons for switching from Windows to Apple is the company’s first-class operating systems and baked-in ecosystems that translate from one platform to another.

Over the years, Apple has worked hard to introduce several powerful features designed to make working across your Mac, iPhone, and iPad as straightforward and convenient as possible.

For example, you can use an Apple Pencil to create detailed illustrations on your iPad and insert them into a Keynote presentation on your Mac. Universal Control allows you to use the same mouse for both devices, moving your cursor fluidly between two platforms and dragging and dropping files for those with an iPad and a Mac. Universal Control does everything you wanted and hoped your devices do: it makes sense. 

Another feature is AirPlay to Mac, allowing you to seamlessly share content, such as videos and Keynote presentations, to your MacBook or iMac. You can either Mirror your display or extend your display to boost your productivity, and even use your Mac as an AirPlay speaker and enjoy the high-fidelity room-filling sound from another device when listening to music or watching the latest Apple TV+ movie between work tasks.

Sidecar works across iPad and Mac, using your device as a second display. Work from one app on your Mac and have another open on your iPad, jumping between the two when needed. It’s also possible to use the feature to mirror content, so you can allow others to review and make comments as you tweak video files, photographs, and more. You can even use your Apple Pencil to design in Illustrator, edit photos in Affinity Photo, and create 3D models in ZBrush, taking your Mac apps to the next level and allowing you to utilize all of your hardware. 

Other continuity features between the iPad and Mac include Continuity Markup, which allows you to sign documents and comment on content with your Apple Pencil or finger. At the same time, you can also send SMS text messages from your Mac. Similarly, you can make and receive standard phone calls and FaceTime audio and video calls from your Mac, and with macOS Ventura coming later this year, you can Handoff between your devices , so you never have to stay on a call on your phone when you’re ready to hit the desk.

Other valuable tools include Continuity Camera, which also receives some significant upgrades with macOS Ventura,  Auto Lock, Handoff, AirDrop, and Universal Clipboard. Combined, these features make it easier to start working from one device and move across to another without difficulty. 

Are you making the switch to Apple? Let us know how you get on over on social media! 

About the Author

News content on AppleMagazine.com is produced by our editorial team and complements more in-depth editorials which you’ll find as part of our weekly publication. AppleMagazine.com provides a comprehensive daily reading experience, offering a wide view of the consumer technology landscape to ensure you're always in the know. Check back every weekday for more.

Editorial Team | Masthead – AppleMagazine Digital Publication