For millions of users, the iPhone is a device that does it all, and is often used instead of a real computer. The list of things you can do with an iPhone is nearly endless. From surfing the net to creating graphics, the iPhone is full of features and usability.
It should come as no surprise that the iPhone can also be used as a mouse or trackpad for a Mac. It might seem crazy to use a device of this value as a simple mouse, but if you are having trouble and don't have a mouse at hand, the best tool is the one you have right away. Here's how to use yours iPhone come mouse su Mac.
Use iPhone as a Mouse on Mac
There is no shortage of apps available to take advantage of an "iPhone as a mouse". One of the most popular options out there is called "Mobile Mouse Remote". It is one of the few apps that appear online offering similar functionality.
It costs around 2 euros and is a bargain for the features offered. Once you download the app on your iPhone, the rest will be very simple. In a few minutes you will be ready to use your iPhone as a mouse (certainly the most expensive mouse you can imagine).
Connecting the iPhone
Mobile Mouse Remote gives users four different ways to get their iPhone to communicate with their Mac computer. The first is, of course, the network. Wi-Fi. This is a great option when you are at home or in the office and have a solid and stable signal. There is also a peer-to-peer option, but it's the least effective of all four options to use.
The second most popular option is probably the Bluetooth. Last, but not least, is to connect the iPhone to the Mac via a connection USB. This doesn't allow the iPhone to be used as a “wireless mouse”, but it works faster and more effectively. Note that any connection method other than Wi-Fi requires an in-app purchase of $ 0,99.
After installing the app on your iPhone, you need to download the software on your Mac as well. Download the free Mobile Mouse server app and install it on your hard drive. Once the initial setup is complete, the next time you run your Mac, both devices should automatically “pair” if they are on the same Wi-Fi network.
Activation of the "mouse" function
L’app desktop Mouse Mobile it's in the menu bar where it waits for you to access your server settings. The app automatically handles most of the backend functions, including configuring the IP and port settings for syncing with your iPhone.
The first time you open the app you will be asked to give Accessibility access on your Mac. We have seen this request over and over in recent versions of macOS, and while it may be annoying, it is designed for data protection.
That said, go to “System Preferences -> Accessibility -> Privacy -> Mobile Mouse Server” and click on the box. You may need to clear the lock, enter your computer password, and then select the mouse app. Later, you can click the lock again to protect against other changes.
When connected to the computer, test the connection by accessing the server settings on the app. The computer should appear in the list with a check mark next to it. You should also see the type of connection you are using in green.
Once connected, you can move the mouse as you would any other wireless mouse. Multitouch is included so you have access to many of the same multi-finger functions, including pinching in and out and a variety of shortcut functions.
One last thing is that it is recommended to use a password with this app, which is enabled via settings, in case someone takes your iPhone without your permission.
Use your own iPhone come un mouse it seems strange but interesting nonetheless. In case you need a mouse, it's nice to know you always have one there in your pocket.