Q: Is Tab Display free?
A: Yes, Tab Display is free. We do insert advertisements to support ongoing maintenance and development of the app, but we are not considering direct monetization. If the ads are inconvenient, you can use the ad removal feature for a more comfortable experience.
Q: Which device combinations support which connection methods and features?
A:
The table below shows support for Wi-Fi/network, USB tethering, USB Direct Connection, Extended Display, Window Mirror, and Remote Player.
Each cell shows whether the feature is supported: ✅ supported, ❌ not supported, — connection method unavailable.
Swipe or scroll horizontally to view the full table.
Supported Not supported Connection method unavailable
| Desktop | Mobile device | Wi-Fi / network | USB tethering | USB Direct Connection | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
macOS | Android |
| — |
| No connection code is required. |
macOS | iPad / iOS |
|
| — | USB tethering uses Personal Hotspot. |
Windows | Android |
|
| — | Uses the tablet's USB tethering network. |
Windows | iPad / iOS |
|
| — | Uses Personal Hotspot on the iPad or iPhone. |
For supported device combinations, network and USB tethering offer all three features on macOS, and Extended Display and Remote Player on Windows. Window Mirror is Mac-only. USB Direct Connection is Mac + Android only and supports Extended Display and Window Mirror, but not Remote Player.
Q: Can I use Tab Display with a wired connection?
A: Yes. Choose the wired method that matches your devices. Mac + Android uses USB Direct Connection and does not require a connection code. Windows + Android, Windows + iPad/iOS, and Mac + iPad/iOS use USB tethering; after enabling tethering, select the tethered network in Tab Display Settings. See the Wired Connection guide for details.
Q: How do I set up USB tethering on an iPad or Android tablet?
A: Mac + Android uses USB Direct Connection instead of USB tethering. For other supported combinations, first check that the tablet offers USB tethering or Personal Hotspot, connect it by USB, then follow the device-specific instructions below. Availability varies by device and mobile plan.
Q: I entered the connection code, but there is no response. What should I do?
A: For a Network/Wi-Fi connection, both devices must be on the same local network. On the desktop, open Settings → Connection, choose Network, and select the Wi-Fi interface connected to the same network as the tablet. If you are using USB tethering, select the tethered network instead. USB Direct Connection for Mac + Android does not use a connection code.
Q: Both devices are connected to the same local network, but still, the connection fails. What should I do?
A: The connection code uses the network interface selected in the desktop app. In Settings → Connection, choose an interface reachable from the tablet and check that both apps use the same port. If needed, enter the full IP address shown for that interface, such as 192.168.1.10, using your own computer's address. If it still fails, check whether the firewall or network blocks communication between devices.
Q: Why do I see “Unsupported Display Setting”?
A: For a USB extended display, Tab Display checks your selected resolution, HiDPI, and Max FPS before starting. If the combination exceeds the transmission limit of your setup, lower the resolution or Max FPS and try again. With Auto Resolution, a larger Display Size lowers the workspace resolution. The app keeps your selection until you change it.
Q: Why does a larger Display Size use a lower resolution?
A: Display Size: Default (100% resolution) / Large (75% resolution) / Very Large (50% resolution). Sets the virtual screen's width and height as a percentage of the connected device's resolution. Lower percentages make text and icons larger, so less fits on the screen. The actual transmission resolution also depends on HiDPI.
Q: Does Auto always deliver a high frame rate?
A: No. For USB connections, Auto requests the refresh rate reported by the connected device; it does not guarantee that frame rate. Resolution, HiDPI, and device performance can lower the actual rate. The FPS shown in the connection screen is a setting, not a live performance measurement. You can also select 30 or 60.
