Apple enclose Universal Clipboard in 2016 as a glue that connects what you replicate and paste across all your iCloud - linked twist . Copy some text on an iPhone , and you’re able to glue it on a Mac . AirDrop works as a more world-wide case for the same thing , but Universal Clipboard is instant and invisible , when it works . ( It used to be erratic in my experience ; it ’s become more and more rock firm in the last pair of iOS , iPadOS , and macOS vent . )

To use Universal Clipboard , you need to meetContinuityand Handoff necessary . For Continuity that means iOS 10 or afterwards running on an iPhone 5 or later and nearly every iPad framework , or nigh all 2012 or later Mac models with macOS 10.12 Sierra or later set up . ForHandoff , you need to have Wi - Fi and Bluetooth enabled on all devices you want to habituate the feature with , they must be signalize into the same iCloud story , and they must be within Bluetooth range of one another . That aid ensures proximity and reduces possible privacy penetration and plan of attack control surface .

Each equipment you use Universal Clipboard with also has to have Handoff enable :

Article image

There ’s no additional configuration : simulate on one twist and paste on another . Apple notice the copied point “ stay there briefly ” in one of its support documents , but it ’s more exactly about two bit . ( To transfer complete file cabinet between Macs , both Macs must have 10.13 High Sierra or later set up . )

Because the Clipboard contains raw information , Apple not employ both law of proximity as one accession - reduction measure , as note above , but also   relies on end - to - end encryption   between each curing of two machine that use the feature . So if you have an iPad and an iPhone near your Mac , Apple establishes separate secure link between your Mac and iPad and between your Mac and iPhone .

What if you ’d prefer Universal Clipboard isnotin use ? you may disable Bluetooth on the gimmick you ’re copying on , such as your Mac , though that handicap other features . you’re able to disable Handoff in the locations key above , which prevents other features from working , like open up websites or documents through Handoff .

Article image

This Mac 911 article is in response to a interrogation submitted by a Macworld reviewer .

Ask Mac 911

We ’ve compiled a inclination of the dubiousness we get involve most oft , along with answers and tie-in to columns :   understand our A-one FAQ   to see if your question is cover . If not , we ’re always front for new job to solve ! Email yours tomac911@macworld.com , include screen captures as appropriate and whether you want your full name used . Not every head will be do , we do n’t answer to email , and we can not provide lineal troubleshooting advice .

For more copy and paste assistance read : Top Tips : All the means you could Copy and Paste on a Mac