Luna Display Mac Setup Guide: Connect iPad or Mac as Second Display

Quick answer:

  • Luna Display turns your Mac into a powerhouse by extending its screen to an iPad or another Mac as a wireless second display
  • Setup requires installing Luna Display app on your primary Mac and Luna Secondary app on your iPad/second Mac
  • Both devices must be on the same Wi-Fi network, or connect via USB (depending on compatibility), Ethernet, or Thunderbolt cable
  • Enable Screen Recording permission in macOS System Settings when prompted during setup
  • Luna Display hardware must plug directly into your Mac - no adapters or hubs supported
  • For M4 Mac Mini/Mac Studio: use rear Thunderbolt ports only; front ports don't support displays
  • Works with M1, M2, M3, and M4 Macs - check your Mac's technical specs for display limitations

  • Getting Started

    Luna Display turns your Mac into a powerhouse by extending its screen to an iPad or another Mac. This guide walks you through the quick and easy setup.

    Not sure which Luna you need? Check our quick guide: Choosing your Luna Display Type

    Luna Display Ports

    • Apple Silicon Support: Luna works with M1, M2, M3, and M4 Macs. Some models limit external displays, so check your Mac’s technical specs here.
    • No Adapters: Luna must plug directly into your Mac. More info: Luna and Adapters
    • M4 Mac Mini and Mac Studio: Plug Luna into a rear port. Front Thunderbolt ports don’t support displays.

    Quick Start Guide

    1. Connect to the Same Network
      • Ensure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi or connect via Ethernet or Thunderbolt. If your devices are running macOS 10.15 or later or you are using an iPad as a secondary device, you can connect via USB
    2. Install Luna Display on Your Primary Mac
      • Download from: lunadisplay.com/app
      • Launch the app and plug in your Luna Display when prompted.
      • You’ll be asked to Enable Screen Recording in macOS System Preferences so Luna can extend your display.
      Note: If using macOS Sonoma or newer, ensure Luna Display is enabled under Local Network in macOS Settings.

      Screen Recording Prompt

      Enable Screen Recording

      Note: Luna Display never saves or records your screen or personal data.
    3. Install the Luna Secondary App

      Secondary App Install

    4. Connect Your Secondary Device
      • iPad: Connect via Wi-Fi or USB
      • Mac: Connect via Wi-Fi, USB (macOS 10.15 or later), Ethernet, or Thunderbolt
      • Allow any permission prompts that appear.

      Connect Devices

      Once connected, Luna Display will automatically launch and extend your screen.

    5. Adjust Display Settings (Optional)
      • Open the Luna Display Settings window to customize display layout and preferences.

      Luna Settings Panel

    Need help? Use our Luna Self-Help Wizard. Still stuck? Contact us with your devices and the step where you're having trouble.

    You're all set. Enjoy Luna Display!

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