Duet Display is a companion app that turns your phone into a second screen for your Mac or PC, giving you extra workspace without buying new hardware. By using your iPhone, iPad, or Android device as a second monitor, you can extend your desktop to mirror or expand your display, making multitasking and productivity far easier.
What is Duet Display's second screen feature?
Duet Display is a software solution that lets you use an iPhone, iPad, or Android phone as a secondary display for a computer. It works with both macOS and Windows, allowing you to either mirror your main screen or extend it to create a larger, more versatile workspace. Whether you need to keep reference materials open while editing, or want a dedicated space for chat apps and email, Duet Display turns your mobile device into a functional second monitor that integrates seamlessly with your existing setup.
Device compatibility and requirements
Duet Display supports a wide range of devices, but specific operating system versions are required. For iPhones and iPads, you need iOS 10 or later; the iPad 1 is not supported because it only runs iOS 5.1.1 or earlier. Older Duet app versions are compatible with iOS 7.0. Android devices require Android 7.0 or later. The app works with both Mac and Windows computers. No carrier-specific settings or phone model lists beyond these OS minimums are documented in the official support pages.
How to set up Duet Display wirelessly on an iPhone or iPad
Setting up a wireless connection, called Duet Air, is straightforward. Duet must be installed on both devices you want to connect. Follow these steps:
- Install Duet Display on your iPhone or iPad and on your computer.
- Ensure both devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Sign in to the same Duet account on both devices.
- On your computer, turn on Screen Sharing Enabled in the Duet settings.
- Open the Duet app on your iPhone or iPad and tap the Air tab at the bottom or left side.
- Select your computer from the list that appears.
- Tap Mirror to duplicate your computer screen, or Extend to use your device as an additional monitor.
How to set up Duet Display on an Android phone
For Android devices, the setup process is slightly different because it requires a dedicated desktop app. Here is how to get started:
- Install the Duet Display app on your Android phone from the appropriate app store.
- Install the free Duet desktop app on your Mac or PC from the Duet website.
- Open the desktop app on your computer.
- Connect your Android device to your computer using a wired USB connection or follow the on-screen instructions for a wireless connection.
- Once connected, the desktop app will recognize your Android device and extend your display. Drag app windows across the screen edge to the Android device.
Using your phone as a second screen
Once connected, your phone behaves like a real second monitor. You can drag application windows, toolbars, and documents between your main screen and your phone. You can adjust the placement and resolution of the virtual second screen (position right, left, above, or below primary monitor). The extended display supports touch input, so you can tap, swipe, and scroll directly on your phone's screen to interact with your computer. Stylus support is also available for precise tasks like drawing or note-taking. This makes Duet Display especially useful for creative professionals who need a portable drawing tablet, or for anyone who wants to use their phone as a dedicated secondary workspace. The app also works well with laptop docking stations, letting you quickly add a portable screen to a multi-monitor office setup. If you need a guide on how to use iPad as second monitor for Windows or Mac, the same wireless setup steps above apply to iPads running iOS 10 or later. For a clean desk, consider a phone wireless charging setup to keep your device powered while it serves as your second display.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Duet Display work across different operating systems?
Yes. Duet Display connects macOS, Windows, iOS, and Android devices. You can use an iPhone with a Windows PC, or an Android phone with a Mac, as long as both devices meet the minimum OS requirements.
What is the difference between extending and mirroring the display?
Extending adds your phone as a separate monitor, giving you more screen space to move windows and apps onto. Mirroring duplicates your computer's main screen exactly on your phone, which is useful for presentations or remote viewing.
Do I need a cable to use Duet Display?
No, a cable is not required. Duet Display supports both wireless (Duet Air) and wired USB connections. Wireless setup requires both devices on the same network and signed into the same Duet account.
Is there a limit to how many devices I can connect?
You can typically connect one mobile device to your computer at a time.
For the wider topic, see laptop docking stations.
