Request or give remote control in a FaceTime call on iPad
During a one-to-one FaceTime video or audio call, you can remotely control another participant’s screen or allow them to remotely control yours. The person controlling the screen can help with an issue or demonstrate how to use an app.
Note: Before someone can remotely control your screen, they need to be saved in your contacts. To help protect your data and privacy, additional restrictions may apply to remote control requests.
Request remote control
You can request control of an iPad or iPhone screen that’s being shared with you.
Note: Both you and the other participant need iPadOS 18, iOS 18, or later.
In the FaceTime app on your iPad, tap the window showing the shared screen.
Tap .
If the other participant accepts your request, you can tap or swipe on the shared screen. You can also use the onscreen keyboard within apps.
Accept a remote control request
A participant can request to remotely control your screen if they’re using an iPad with iPadOS 18 or later.
When you receive a remote control request notification in the FaceTime app on your iPad, tap Allow.
WARNING: The person remotely controlling the screen can perform actions on your iPad such as opening and closing apps, changing settings, deleting items, or sending messages. Only approve remote control requests from people you trust.
The person remotely controlling the screen may be restricted from tasks such as changing your Apple Account or Face ID settings, making payments, or erasing your device. Your Face ID and Touch ID will be disabled during a remote control session.
You can still tap, swipe, or type while your screen is remotely controlled—your actions take priority over remote actions.
Decline a remote control request
When you receive a remote control request notification while sharing your screen in the FaceTime app on your iPad, tap Don’t Allow. Screen sharing continues, and the other participant can still tap, draw, or write on your screen to highlight important areas.
Stop remote control
You can end remote control at any time. Do one of the following:
If you’re allowing someone to control your screen: Tap Stop at the top right of the screen sharing window.
If you're controlling someone else’s screen: Tap .
Ending a FaceTime call also ends remote control and screen sharing.
Remote control isn’t available in all countries or regions. See iOS and iPadOS Feature Availability