Here are two ways to start screen sharing:ĭo a Spotlight search for ‘Screen Sharing’ and launch it.

To do this, make sure the ‘Screen Sharing’ box is checked in System Preferences → Sharing. Also, if the Apple ID they use for iCloud and Messages on the Mac is different, you’ll need to have both emails on their contact card. When you do Mac to Mac screen sharing this is an option, you can also share your screen instead of seeing theirs. Providing support to others can be even smoother when you can take control of their device. KCOOL’s octopus style tripod is great for portability and flexibility and AmazonBasics Lightweight Tripod is an awesome value for a full size option which pairs well with I pow’s iPad Tripod Mount Adapter and other accessories. I’ve found it’s nice for the other person to have an adjustable stand or tripod to keep the FaceTime device steady and at a good angle. It’s also useful to see how the person needs to adjust how they’re trying to navigate, tap, interact, etc. Even though this doesn’t provide the ability to control their device, it still helps you see more quickly what is going wrong. Instead of struggling through a phone call, I often forget to have the other person take a FaceTime call on a secondary iOS device, and point it towards the device they are struggling with. However, if they only have iOS devices this first option may be obvious, but is still useful. My favorite trick is using QuickTime on a Mac to screen share an iOS device (skip towards the bottom if you want to do this). For options two and three we’ll walk through how to screen share with Macs, iPhones, iPads, and iPods without any third-party software.

The cleanest way to see and even control another persons device (outside of paid software like logmein) is if they have a Mac. Keep reading after the break for three ways to remotely help others more efficiently. Sometimes it works to problem solve by voice or text message when you aren’t with the user in need, but it’s often better to see what they’re seeing and also have some remote control access. Over that last month your friends and family have probably purchased or been gifted a range of new devices, and odds may be good that you’re the go-to for tech support.

Logmein for mac prevents screen sharing