The iPad Pro has always been a versatile device for day-to-day tasks such as browsing the web and creating basic documents, but use a trackpad with it and it suddenly becomes a replacement for the traditional computer. That’s because a trackpad makes it possible to easily select text, move objects, and even manipulate spreadsheet cells. Best of all, iPadOS supports a number of gestures which enable you to fully control every part of the iPad experience, using just the trackpad.
To get started, it’s recommended that you use one of these two accessories:
Magic Keyboard
Priced $299 for the 11-inch keyboard, or $349 for the 12.9-inch keyboard, this is a full-sized keyboard with scissor mechanism keys and a large Multi-Touch trackpad. It also includes a USB-C port for passthrough charging and front and back protection.
Magic Trackpad 2
Traditionally included with the iMac, this stand-alone trackpad can automatically connect to the iPad Pro using Bluetooth.
How to connect a Trackpad with your iPad
To connect the Magic Trackpad or Mouse to the iPad, open the Settings app, tap Bluetooth, then select the accessory. If you don’t see it, make sure to unpair it from your Mac first.
The basics of using the pointer
With a trackpad or mouse connected to your iPad, you’ll see a circular pointer on the screen. This is called the pointer, and it moves around the screen as you slide your finger across the trackpad or move the mouse.
- The pointer only appears when you need it. The pointer isn’t persistent at all times, instead only appearing when you’re touching the trackpad or moving the mouse.
- It can change shape based on what it’s pointing at. The pointer changes shape to be the size of the button or app below it, and if you move it over text, it turns into a thin vertical line. You can disable this by going to Settings > Accessibility > Pointer Control, then toggling Pointer Animations off.