Download Afar Window Host

Afar Window comes as two apps. Afar Window goes on the iPad, from the App Store. Afar Window Host goes on the Mac you want to use, from this page.

Setting up

1. Install

   Open the downloaded disk image, drag Afar Window Host to the Applications folder, and open it. Its icon appears in the menu bar; click it to open the panel.

2. Allow Screen Recording and Accessibility

   The panel lists what still needs permission. Screen Recording sends the picture to the iPad; Accessibility arranges windows and delivers taps and typing. The button next to each opens System Settings, where you turn on Afar Window Host in the matching list. macOS may ask you to reopen the app.

3. Pair with your iPad

   Open Afar Window on the iPad. Macs on the same network appear in its list. Choose this Mac, and both screens show the same six-digit code; when they match, click Allow on the Mac. Later connections don't ask again.

4. Install the virtual microphoneOptional

   Needed for dictating on the Mac through the iPad's microphone. Click Install in the panel or in the Sound section of Settings and enter an administrator password; the Mac's sound stops for a second or two while it installs. Dictation needs a separately installed third-party dictation app, such as Spokenly; once installed, set its microphone to Afar Window Microphone.

5. Open at loginOptional

   Turn on Open at Login in Settings, and the Mac starts sharing again after a restart.

From another network

Add the Mac's address on the iPad, such as the one Tailscale gives it. The panel lists all of this Mac's addresses, ready to copy. These connections are end-to-end encrypted as well.

Requirements

Mac

macOS 26 or later

iPad

iPadOS 26 or later

Network

The same local network, or a connection through a tool such as Tailscale

Dictation

A separately installed third-party dictation app on the Mac, such as Spokenly (optional)