🖥️ What is headless mode?
Headless mode lets you use a Mac that has no monitor plugged in (after initial setup, of course). Workbench is a remote access solution that enables this functionality without requiring any hardware, unlike Luna Display, which is designed for extended desktop setups and requires a hardware unit.
Headless mode is ideal for Mac mini and Mac Studio users who don't want to use an external monitor.
✅ Why Workbench Works Well for Headless Mode
Connect from Anywhere There's no same network requirement, so it works over the internet from almost any location However, for optimal performance, connecting both devices to the same local network (e.g., via the same Wi-Fi) is recommended, as this allows for a direct device-to-device connection with minimal latency.
No Hardware Required
Workbench creates a virtual display after initial setup so there is no need for a hardware unit (no Luna Display unit required)
Added Input Options
Workbench has an added on-screen keyboard and voice dictation included
Manage Multiple Displays
Switch between all of your Mac's displays from your iPad or iPhone; multiple displays are supported
Manage Multiple Macs
Workbench is especially helpful if you're running more than one Mac Mini or Mac Studio and need to switch between the two
🔄 Headless Mode SetupWatch a demo on how to set up Headless Mode on your Mac:
Step 1: Connect an External Monitor for Setup
Connect an external monitor, keyboard, and mouse/trackpad to your Mac mini or Mac Studio for the initial configuration.
If you don't have a monitor, a TV with an HDMI cable will work well.
Step 2: Download the Workbench Mac App
While the external monitor is connected, download and install Workbench on your Mac from astropad.com.
Create a new Workbench account and sign in. You'll be asked to allow certain permissions, so be sure to follow along in our Setting Up Workbench guide.
Step 3: Disable FileVault
This is required for Automatic Login to work, and eliminates the need for a password upon booting up your Mac.
Go to System Settings > Privacy & Security > FileVault
Click Turn Off
Step 4: Set Up Automatic Login
Go to System Settings > Users & Groups
Under "Automatically log in as", select your desired User Account
Step 5: Add Workbench to Login Items
This ensures Workbench launches automatically when your Mac starts, so it's always ready to connect.
Go to System Settings > General > Login Items & Extensions
Click the + under Open at Login
Add Workbench from the Applications list
🛠️ Alternative Method
Right-click the Workbench icon in the Dock
Go to Options > Open at Login
⚡ Easiest Method
Click the Ellipses (…) button in the Workbench app on your Mac to access Remote Access Settings
Enable the Start at Login toggle to launch Workbench automatically when your Mac starts
⚠️ Sleep Prevention: Workbench automatically prevents your Mac from sleeping to keep the connection available.
To adjust, go to Workbench's Remote Access Settings (as shown above) or macOS System Settings > Energy.
*You can still allow your display to turn off separately, just don't set it to sleep.
Step 6: Install Workbench on Your Mac, iPad, or iPhone
Download the Workbench app on your Mac, iPad, or iPhone. Sign into the same Workbench account you created on your Mac.
Step 7: Launch Workbench and Connect
Open Workbench on your Mac and on your other Mac, iPad, or iPhone. Your Mac will appear in the device list, tap it to connect.
You don't have to be on the same network, all you need is a stable internet connection on both devices. However, being on the same local network provides better performance through a direct device-to-device connection, while cross-network use relies on a relay server, which may introduce additional latency.
Step 8: Disconnect the External Monitor
Once the Workbench connection is active, you can safely disconnect the external monitor, keyboard, and mouse.
Your Mac will now be fully accessible through Workbench.
⚠️ Can I use Workbench and Luna Display at the same time?
We don't recommend running Workbench and Luna Display simultaneously. Testing showed inconsistent behavior with latency, resolution, and window placement when both are active. Use one or the other for best results. Luna Display is designed for extended desktop setups, allowing you to use an iPad or another Mac as a second monitor, while Workbench is focused on remote access to a single display. These distinct purposes make them better suited for different use cases.
If you run into any issues getting connected, check out our Connection Troubleshooting article.