Are you frustrated with Sidecar not working on your Mac? You’re not alone. This feature, which lets you use an iPad as a secondary display, can sometimes be a bit finicky. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with a quick guide to get it up and running in no time.
Step by Step Tutorial: Troubleshooting Sidecar Not Working on Mac
Before we dive into the steps, let’s understand what we’re trying to achieve. These steps will help you diagnose and fix the common issues that prevent Sidecar from working properly on your Mac.
Step 1: Check Compatibility
Ensure that your Mac and iPad are compatible with Sidecar.
Compatibility is key. Sidecar requires macOS Catalina or later and an iPad running iPadOS 13 or later. Also, not all Macs and iPads support Sidecar, so check Apple’s list of compatible devices.
Step 2: Update Software
Update both your Mac and iPad to the latest software version.
Outdated software can often be the culprit. Head to System Preferences on your Mac and Settings on your iPad to check for updates.
Step 3: Enable Two-Factor Authentication
Make sure two-factor authentication is enabled for your Apple ID.
Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security and is required for Sidecar to work. You can enable it in the Security section of your Apple ID account settings.
Step 4: Check Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
Confirm that both your Mac and iPad are connected to the same Wi-Fi network and that Bluetooth is turned on.
Sidecar uses Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to connect. If they’re not on the same network or Bluetooth is off, Sidecar won’t work.
Step 5: Restart Devices
If all else fails, try restarting both your Mac and iPad.
Sometimes a good old-fashioned restart can solve mysterious tech issues. Give both your devices a reboot and try connecting again.
Once you’ve completed these steps, you should be able to use Sidecar without any hiccups. If you’re still facing issues, you may need to delve a bit deeper into settings or consider contacting Apple support.
Tips for Troubleshooting Sidecar Not Working on Mac
- Ensure that your devices are not too far apart; proximity matters for a good connection.
- Disable "Allow Handoff between this Mac and your iCloud devices" and then re-enable it.
- If you’re using a VPN, try disabling it; VPNs can interfere with Sidecar.
- Sign out of your Apple ID on both devices and sign back in.
- Disable any firewall settings on your Mac that might be blocking the connection.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sidecar
Is Sidecar available for all iPad models?
No, Sidecar is only available for certain iPad models. Check Apple’s website for a list of compatible devices.
Can I use Sidecar with a wired connection?
Yes, you can use a USB cable to connect your iPad to your Mac if you prefer a wired connection.
Why can’t I see the Sidecar icon in my Mac’s menu bar?
If you can’t see the Sidecar icon, it could be that the feature isn’t enabled in your Mac’s display settings, or it’s not available on your device.
How do I disconnect my iPad from Sidecar?
You can disconnect your iPad by clicking the "Disconnect" button in the Sidecar settings or simply unplugging your iPad if it’s connected via USB.
Can I still use other apps on my iPad while using Sidecar?
Yes, you can use other apps; however, it may interrupt the Sidecar session.
Summary
- Check compatibility
- Update software
- Enable two-factor authentication
- Check Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- Restart devices
Conclusion
Troubleshooting Sidecar not working on Mac can be frustrating, but with these simple steps, you can usually get it back up and running quickly. Remember to check for compatibility, update your devices, enable two-factor authentication, ensure Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are turned on, and when in doubt, restart your devices. With a little patience and some tech savvy, you’ll be using your iPad as a second display like a pro. And if you’ve tried all the tips and FAQs and still find yourself stuck, don’t hesitate to reach out to Apple support for help. Happy multitasking!

Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.