You hold an Apple computer and often input text on your phone or tablet. Wouldn’t it be extremely cumbersome and inconvenient to switch devices back and forth? A Mac software called “Digest” can solve this problem. It allows your Mac keyboard to directly control other devices.
Software core function analysis
The operation of establishing a connection with iPad, iPhone, Apple TV and other devices requires the help of the built-in Bluetooth module of the Mac computer. It is this software with Bluetooth connection technology as the core that facilitates this. After the connection is successful, you can use the Mac's keyboard and trackpad to directly operate these devices to achieve text input and basic navigation.
This means you can reply to emails on an iPad, type long messages on an iPhone, and even control the Apple TV interface with a Mac keyboard. It actually turns the Mac into a multi-function console, eliminating the complexity of equipping each device with a separate keyboard, and is especially suitable for situations where multiple devices work together.
Broad device compatibility
The support provided by software for those things called devices is extremely extensive. In addition to Apple's own iOS devices, Apple TV and Mac, it can also be compatible with a variety of Android-powered devices and Windows computers, and even expand its scope to include some mainstream game consoles. As long as the target device has the ability to support the standard Bluetooth HID protocol, there will be a high probability that the connection can be successfully achieved.
Such broad compatibility greatly improves its practical application value. Whether it is work, entertainment, or home audio and video, users can use a set of keyboard and mouse for unified management, simplifying the operation process and saving desktop space.
Detailed step-by-step guide
Before using it, make sure your Mac system is version 10.9 or above. The software itself is only about 9MB. The first step is to turn on Bluetooth on the device that needs to be controlled and make it discoverable. Then in the second step, search for and pair the target device in your Mac’s Bluetooth settings.
The third step is to open the "Summary" software, which will usually display the paired devices. Just click to connect. For iOS devices, sometimes the connection request must be confirmed on the device. The entire process does not require the installation of any additional applications on the controlled device.
Practical scenarios to improve efficiency
In actual office situations, when you need to write reports or reply to a large number of work emails on an iPad, using the Mac's full-size keyboard can significantly improve the speed and comfort of input. In home entertainment scenarios, using a Mac keyboard to enter search terms and manage playlists on a game console or set-top box connected to a TV is much more efficient than using a remote control to click on letters one by one.
It can easily and well manage the music playback status of many various devices that are connected to the Internet. There is no need to get up and operate each device. For those who work in self-media, it is more convenient to quickly input draft copywriting on a mobile phone or tablet with the help of a keyboard than operating on a touch screen.
Advantages and limitations of software
Its main advantages are convenience and low cost. Users do not need to purchase additional Bluetooth keyboards. Instead, they can directly use existing devices and quickly switch after only one setting. Its software interface presents simple features and has low learning costs. However, its limitation is that it relies on the stability of Bluetooth connections, and delays or disconnections may occur under complex wireless conditions.
What it achieves is mainly text input and basic pointer control. It is not a complete remote desktop and cannot run complex applications on the controlled device. The latest version of the software is at the beginning of 2022, and there may be restrictions on subsequent feature updates.
Precautions and summary for use
When using it, please pay attention to ensure that the distance between the Mac and the device being controlled is close to obtain a stable connection. Some old or special devices may not be perfectly compatible. Although there are so-called "cracked versions" on the Internet, for the sake of security and stability of use, it is recommended that users obtain the software through formal channels.
"Summary" is a particularly practical tool for specific needs. It cleverly turns Mac into a multi-functional input center. For users who have multiple Apple devices or commonly used Bluetooth peripherals, it can effectively integrate resources and improve the smoothness of cross-device work.
Have you ever tried to control multiple devices with one keyboard and mouse? During actual use, have you encountered any surprises or headaches? You are welcome to tell your experience in the comment area. If you find this article helpful, please like it to support it.
