📋 What is Slate? Slate transforms your iPad into a precision cursor control device for your Mac using Apple Pencil. Perfect for browsing, designing, or annotating with mouse-like precision.
Getting Started
✅ Check Compatibility First: Verify your devices meet Slate's system requirements before proceeding.
Download & Installation
💻 Mac App Setup
Download Slate for Mac from our Downloads Page
Install the app: Open the .dmg file and drag Slate to Applications
Add to Dock: Right-click Slate icon > Options > Keep in Dock for easy access
📱 iPad App Setup
Download Slate from the App Store for $19.99 USD
Initial Connection
🔗 Pairing Your Devices
Open Slate on both Mac and iPad
Follow on-screen instructions to establish connection
Choose connection method: Wi-Fi, USB cable, or Peer-to-Peer
💡 Performance tip: For optimal Wi-Fi performance, use a modern router (802.11ac) on a 5GHz network.
Learn more: Slate connection methods guide
Cursor Configuration
Choose between two cursor control modes based on your workflow:
🖱️ Mouse-like (Relative Positioning)
iPad functions as a giant trackpad
Cursor moves freely across Mac screen
Adjustable tracking speed for personalized control
Best for: General navigation, web browsing, productivity tasks
🎯 Screen-mapping (Absolute Positioning)
iPad mirrors your Mac display, scaled to fit
Direct 1:1 mapping between touch and cursor position
Adjustable mapped area like traditional pen tablets
Best for: Precise drawing, design work, digital art
Learn more about Slate's navigation modes:
Using Slate
✨ iPads with Apple Pencil Hover Support
Move cursor: Hover Apple Pencil above the iPad screen
Click: Tap Apple Pencil on the screen
Hover detection: No contact needed for cursor movement
📝 iPads without Apple Pencil Hover
Move cursor: Lightly drag Apple Pencil on the iPad screen
Click: Tap Apple Pencil on the screen
Pressure sensitivity: Adjustable for comfortable use
Learn more about how hover works in Astropad Slate:
⚙️ Advanced Configurations
Pressure sensitivity: Customize based on your Apple Pencil pressure
Tracking speed: Fine-tune cursor responsiveness
Connection preferences: Set default connection method
Custom gestures: Configure multi-touch shortcuts
Find out how to use the gestures in Astropad Slate:
🔧 Troubleshooting Setup
Connection issues: Try different connection methods
Performance problems: Switch to 5GHz Wi-Fi or use USB cable
Cursor lag: Adjust tracking sensitivity settings
App crashes: Restart both devices and reconnect
📚 Next Steps
Explore cursor customization options in Slate settings
Test both positioning modes to find your preference
Configure shortcuts and gestures for your workflow
Check out advanced features and productivity tips
💡 Tip: Spend time testing both cursor modes with your most-used applications to determine which feels more natural for your specific tasks.