Can Linux Mint on a 2017 MacBook still use an iPad as a second display?
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MellowPine47
I'm considering installing Linux Mint on my 2017 MacBook, but I also use an iPad and iPhone. Is there any way to keep features like using the iPad as a second monitor, AirDrop, and cross-device copy and paste? I'm mainly interested in whether Linux has reliable alternatives that work with Apple devices, especially for extending the laptop's display.
Answers
Apple’s Sidecar, AirDrop, and the other tightly integrated continuity features rely on proprietary Apple protocols. Linux can’t officially provide the same experience because those interfaces aren’t openly available.
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Linux should run on the MacBook, but some Apple hardware may need extra configuration for things like Wi-Fi, audio, input devices, or newer security-related components. Check a current hardware-support guide for your exact 2017 model before installing, and plan for a few device-specific setup steps.
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You could look into Weylus or VirtScreen for turning another device into an additional display. Results can vary depending on the hardware, connection, and Linux display setup, so they may take some experimentation and won’t necessarily match Sidecar’s smoothness.
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KDE Connect and UniClipboard can cover parts of the experience, such as transferring files, sharing notifications, or copying text between devices. They generally require an app on both ends and some manual interaction, though, so they don’t feel as seamless as Apple’s built-in features. I haven’t found a consistently reliable way to use an iPad as a second display from Linux.
MellowPine47: I could live without AirDrop and shared copy and paste, but losing the iPad as a second screen would be much harder.
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MellowPine47: That’s disappointing, but thanks for clarifying.