Is Screens 5 compatible with Apple Silicon Macs and the latest macOS versions?

Absolutely. Screens 5 is fully optimized for Apple Silicon (M-series chips) and the latest macOS versions, including macOS 26. Edovia has ensured that Screens 5 is 'future-ready' with full support for Apple's latest platforms and their 'Liquid Glass' design language. The app's underlying architecture has been updated to leverage the performance benefits of Apple Silicon, providing a fast and responsive remote desktop experience on modern Mac hardware.

Can I use Screens 5 to connect to Windows or Linux PCs, or Raspberry Pi?

Yes, Screens 5 is designed for cross-platform compatibility beyond just Macs. For Windows PCs, you can install the free Screens Connect utility to simplify remote access. For Linux PCs and Raspberry Pi, Screens 5 seamlessly integrates with Tailscale, offering a secure and hassle-free connection method without complex network configurations. Additionally, Screens 5.9 is expected to introduce RDP support, further enhancing its capabilities for connecting to Windows machines.

How does Screens Connect work and is it necessary?

Screens Connect is a free companion utility that makes your Mac or Windows PC reachable from anywhere in the world. It handles the necessary network configurations, like port forwarding, to allow Screens 5 on your client device to find and connect to your remote computer effortlessly. While direct VNC connections are possible, Screens Connect is highly recommended for its ease of setup and reliability, especially for remote access outside your local network. It automatically launches at boot time to ensure your machine is always accessible.

Does Screens 5 support file transfers and clipboard sharing?

Yes, Screens 5 fully supports both file transfers and clipboard sharing, greatly enhancing remote productivity. You can easily drag and drop files between your local Mac, iPhone, iPad, or Apple Vision Pro and your remote Mac during a session. For clipboard sharing, Screens 5 allows seamless transfer of rich text, URLs, images, and more between your local and remote clipboards, making it simple to copy and paste content across systems.

Can I use Screens 5 for remote assistance to friends or family?

Yes, Screens 5 is an excellent tool for providing remote assistance through its free companion utility, Screens Assist. You can ask a friend or family member to download and run Screens Assist on their Mac, and then you can connect to their machine using your Screens 5 client without complex setup from their end. This makes it straightforward to troubleshoot issues, install software, or help with general computer maintenance remotely, proving invaluable for long-distance tech support.

Are there any known limitations, such as lack of audio support?

One notable limitation of Screens 5, due to the nature of the VNC protocol it primarily utilizes, is the lack of direct sound transmission. This means you won't hear audio from the remote computer through your local device when connected via VNC. While this is a common characteristic of VNC-based solutions, it's an important consideration for users who require remote audio. However, upcoming RDP support in version 5.9 may address this for Windows connections.

What security measures does Screens 5 offer for remote connections?

Screens 5 prioritizes secure connections with several robust features. It supports SSH keys for encrypted connections, offering a more secure alternative to passwords. For Mac users, Screens 5 integrates biometric authentication (Touch ID, Face ID, Apple Watch) for quick and secure unlocking of the app itself. When connecting, especially with Screens Connect, all traffic is encrypted. Furthermore, features like Curtain Mode ensure privacy by masking the remote display.

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Screens

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Quick Take: Screens

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Install with Homebrew

brew install --cask screens

What is Screens 5? — Complete Guide for Mac Users in 2026

Screens 5 stands out in 2026 as a premier native VNC remote desktop client, meticulously crafted for the Apple ecosystem, offering seamless control over your Mac, Windows PC, Linux PC, or Raspberry Pi from virtually anywhere in the world. Developed by Edovia, Screens has evolved significantly since its inception in 2010, celebrating 15 years of innovation in late 2025. This fifth iteration represents a universal app, harmonizing the remote access experience across iPhone, iPad, Mac, and even Apple Vision Pro. At its core, Screens 5 empowers users to effortlessly interact with their remote machines as if they were sitting directly in front of them, providing a truly local-like experience that many competitors struggle to match. It achieves this through a robust VNC client, complemented by its free utility, Screens Connect, for simplified setup and access to Mac and Windows machines, and robust integration with Tailscale for secure, network-agnostic connections, especially vital for Linux and Raspberry Pi users. In 2026, Screens 5 is fully optimized for Apple Silicon and the latest macOS 26, having been largely rewritten using SwiftUI to ensure a cohesive, modern aesthetic and peak performance across Apple's platforms. Key differentiators include its intuitive, native Apple interface, superior rendering quality, comprehensive multi-device support, and a strong emphasis on security features like SSH key support and biometric authentication for quick, protected access. The upcoming Screens 5.9 update, slated to introduce RDP support, will further broaden its compatibility and utility for diverse computing environments. Screens 5 is ideal for professionals, IT administrators, and anyone needing reliable, high-performance remote access within and beyond the Apple ecosystem.

Deep Dive: Screens 5

Screens 5 is a versatile remote access solution for Mac, offering robust control and seamless connections to various operating systems. It emphasizes a user-friendly experience, secure connections, and cross-device compatibility, making remote work and support more accessible than ever.

History & Background

Screens, developed by Edovia Inc., has been a prominent remote screen-sharing application for Apple devices for 15 years, with Screens 5 representing a significant evolution from its predecessors. The app has consistently refined its workflow and kept pace with Apple's OS updates. Screens 5, released in December 2023, marked a major rewrite using SwiftUI, offering a cohesive, modern interface across iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Vision Pro. This version also shifted to a universal app model, available through in-app purchases or a subscription, consolidating previous separate purchases for different platforms.

How It Works

Screens 5 on Mac leverages macOS's built-in screen sharing capabilities, primarily utilizing the VNC (Virtual Network Computing) protocol. For enhanced accessibility and simpler setup, it integrates with Edovia's free 'Screens Connect' helper application for both macOS and Windows. This app simplifies remote connections by acting as a middleman, setting up secure SSH (Secure Shell) tunnels. Screens 5.3 further introduced native Tailscale integration, offering a secure and hassle-free alternative that bypasses traditional port mapping and works across various networks. The architecture also allows for custom connections using URLs or IP addresses and supports SSH keys for added security.

Ecosystem & Integrations

Screens 5 fosters a robust ecosystem primarily centered around seamless integration within the Apple environment, extending to Windows, Linux, and Raspberry Pi. Its core utility, Screens Connect, simplifies remote access setup for Mac and Windows. The significant integration of Tailscale, beginning with Screens 5.3, broadens its reach by offering a secure mesh VPN solution for connecting to diverse devices, including Linux and Raspberry Pi, without complex network configurations. Screens also offers a free 'Screens Assist' utility for Mac, facilitating remote troubleshooting and support for friends and family.

Future Development

Edovia continues to actively develop Screens 5, with recent updates in late 2025 and early 2026 focusing on user experience and platform compatibility. Version 5.7, released in September 2025, added full support for Apple OS 26 (iOS, iPadOS, macOS, visionOS) and introduced a redesigned Library with unified search for iPhone, and background file transfers on iOS/iPadOS 26. Version 5.8, released in January 2026, brought customizable interactive toolbars for iPhone, iPad, and Vision Pro, alongside automatic backup features.

Key Features

Toolbar Customization

Screens 5.8, released in January 2026, introduced fully customizable toolbars for iPhone, iPad, and Apple Vision Pro. This feature allows users to personalize their workflow by adding or removing buttons, placing frequently used controls exactly where they are most convenient. This enhancement significantly improves the user experience by enabling a tailored interface that adapts to individual preferences and specific remote tasks, streamlining operations and boosting productivity across different devices.

File Transfers with Drag & Drop

Seamless file transfer capabilities are a cornerstone of Screens 5, extended in version 5.6 to include iPhone, iPad, and Apple Vision Pro. Users can effortlessly drag and drop files to and from their remote Mac during an active session, making it incredibly easy to exchange documents, media, or other data without interrupting their workflow. This functionality is crucial for productivity, allowing for quick access and management of files from any connected device.

Curtain Mode for Privacy

For enhanced privacy and security, Screens 5 offers Curtain Mode, which masks the display of the remote Mac when a connection is established. This feature is particularly valuable in shared environments, such as offices or public spaces, where sensitive information might be on display. Screens can intelligently detect if Curtain Mode is successfully enabled and will notify the user of any issues, ensuring discretion and preventing unauthorized visual access to the remote desktop.

Multi-Display Support

Screens 5 provides robust support for Macs with multiple connected displays. Users have the flexibility to select a specific screen to view or opt to see all displays simultaneously, adapting to their specific needs. The application intelligently remembers previous display preferences, streamlining future sessions and ensuring that users can efficiently focus on the relevant screen without constant readjustment, enhancing productivity in complex work setups.

Tailscale Integration

Starting with Screens 5.3, deep integration with Tailscale offers a secure and simplified connection method, particularly beneficial for Linux and Raspberry Pi users. Tailscale creates a secure mesh VPN, allowing Screens to connect to registered devices without the complexities of port mapping, even across networks with Carrier-Grade NAT or VPNs. This enhances security and connectivity reliability, making remote access truly hassle-free regardless of network configuration.

Biometric Authentication

Screens 5 significantly enhances security and convenience on Apple devices through biometric authentication. Users can leverage Touch ID, Face ID, or their Apple Watch to swiftly and securely unlock Screens on their Mac before inputting credentials to the remote machine. This accelerates the login process while providing a strong layer of security, aligning with modern Apple ecosystem expectations for fast and protected access to sensitive remote sessions.

Automatic Backups

Screens 5.8 introduced an essential feature: automatic backups of user data. This ensures that connection settings, configurations, and other crucial application data are regularly saved, providing a safety net against data loss. Users can easily restore their data from these backups at any time directly from the app's settings, offering peace of mind and maintaining continuity in their remote access workflows without manual intervention.

Apple Pencil Enhancements

Interacting with remote content becomes more natural and intuitive with Screens 5's Apple Pencil enhancements. Users can tap or drag directly on the remote screen using their Apple Pencil, eliminating the need to first position a cursor. This improvement, especially with the Carousel toolbar design introduced in Screens 5.5, makes navigating and controlling remote interfaces on iPad and iPhone significantly more fluid and responsive for creative and detailed tasks.

Who Should Use Screens?

1Remote Worker

A graphic designer needs to access their powerful Mac Studio at the office from their MacBook Air at home to finalize a large project. Screens 5 allows them to connect securely and utilize the full processing power and installed software of their workstation, transferring large design files seamlessly with drag and drop, and even managing multiple displays as if they were physically present in the office.

2IT Support Professional

An IT specialist needs to troubleshoot a client's Mac or Windows PC without being on-site. Using Screens Assist, they can guide the client through a simple setup, then gain full remote control to diagnose issues, install updates, or configure settings. The ability to initiate a new session or share an existing one, along with file transfer capabilities, makes remote problem-solving efficient and effective.

3Educator/Student

A university student needs to access specialized software installed on a lab computer from their dorm room to complete an assignment. Screens 5 enables them to securely connect to the Linux-based lab machine, or a Mac, using Tailscale integration if needed, ensuring they can utilize necessary resources without physical presence. They can easily copy and paste code or data between their local and remote environments.

4Home User/Family Support

A user wants to help their elderly parents with their Mac mini, which is far away. Instead of driving, they can use Screens Assist to connect and provide remote assistance, installing software, adjusting settings, or resolving email issues. Curtain Mode can be enabled for privacy during sensitive operations, ensuring a secure and helpful remote support experience for family members.

How to Install Screens 5 on Mac

Installing Screens 5 on your Mac is straightforward, enabling you to quickly gain remote access capabilities. The client application for Mac is available on the App Store, while the companion utility, Screens Connect, which makes your Mac remotely accessible, requires a direct download and setup. For the client app itself, users often prefer Homebrew for convenience.

Install Screens 5 Client via Homebrew Cask

Open your Terminal application (found in Applications/Utilities) and execute the command: `brew install --cask screens`. This command uses Homebrew Cask, a popular package manager for macOS, to install the Screens 5 client application directly to your Applications folder, ensuring you have the latest stable version and simplifying future updates.

Download and Install Screens Connect

For your Mac to be remotely accessible, you need to install the free Screens Connect utility. Visit Edovia's website to download the latest Screens Connect for macOS. Unzip the downloaded archive and double-click the installer. Follow the on-screen prompts, allowing it to move to the Applications folder and install any necessary helper tools.

Configure Remote Management on Your Mac

After installing Screens Connect, you must enable Remote Management (or Screen Sharing) on your remote Mac. Go to System Settings > General > Sharing. Enable 'Remote Management'. Click the 'i' button next to it and ensure 'Allow access for' is set to 'All users' or your specific user. In 'Options', enable both 'Observe' and 'Control'.

Set Up Your Screens Connect Account

Launch Screens Connect and follow its Welcome Guide to create a free Screens ID account. This account links your Mac, making it discoverable and securely accessible from your Screens 5 client on other devices. Ensure you complete this setup for effortless remote connections, particularly when outside your local network.

Pro Tips

• Always ensure your remote Mac is awake and connected to the internet for Screens Connect to function correctly.
• Test your remote connection by connecting from a device that is not on your local network (e.g., using your iPhone's cellular data) before relying on it for critical tasks.
• For Linux and Raspberry Pi remote access, consider setting up Tailscale for a highly secure and convenient connection method, which seamlessly integrates with Screens 5.
• Regularly check for updates to both Screens 5 and Screens Connect to benefit from the latest features, performance improvements, and security enhancements.

Configuration Tips

Optimizing Network Performance

To ensure the smoothest remote desktop experience, especially over slower connections, adjust Screens 5's display quality settings. You can choose between 'Adaptive' or 'Full' quality in the connection settings. For high-latency networks, 'Adaptive' will dynamically lower image quality to maintain responsiveness, while 'Full' prioritizes visual fidelity. Experiment to find the balance that suits your network conditions, prioritizing a fluid experience over absolute pixel perfection when bandwidth is limited.

Enhancing Security with SSH Keys

For robust security when connecting to Linux PCs, Raspberry Pis, or even Macs with SSH enabled, configure Screens 5 to use SSH keys. This method provides a more secure alternative to password-based authentication by using a pair of cryptographic keys. Generate an SSH key pair, add the public key to your remote machine's `authorized_keys` file, and then specify the private key in Screens' connection settings for a more secure and streamlined login process.

Customizing Cursor Tracking Speed

Screens 5 allows you to fine-tune the cursor tracking speed, providing a more personalized and comfortable control experience. This setting can be particularly useful when transitioning between different remote machines or screen sizes. You can adjust it within the connection settings or even on the fly during an active session, ensuring precise cursor control that matches your preference and enhances overall remote interaction efficiency.

Managing Multiple Sessions

When connecting to a Mac where another user is already logged in, Screens 5 offers the flexibility to either share their existing session or initiate a completely new, separate session. This is invaluable for collaboration, remote support, or maintaining your own private workspace. By choosing 'New Session', you ensure your activities don't interfere with the other user, and vice-versa, providing greater control over your remote work environment.

Alternatives to Screens

While Screens 5 offers a premium and deeply integrated Apple experience, several other remote access solutions cater to different needs and platforms. Here's how Screens 5 compares to some prominent alternatives:

Jump Desktop

Jump Desktop is a strong cross-platform contender known for its Fluid protocol, which often provides smoother video playback and better audio delivery compared to Screens 5. However, Screens 5 is frequently cited for faster initial connection speeds and a more 'local-like' feel, particularly on Mac. Jump Desktop's setup can sometimes be more technically involved, whereas Screens 5 emphasizes ease of use, especially within the Apple ecosystem. For users prioritizing video and audio, Jump Desktop might appeal, but for overall responsiveness and native Mac integration, Screens 5 often has the edge.

TeamViewer

TeamViewer is a highly versatile and widely adopted solution, renowned for its cross-platform compatibility (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android) and robust features for IT support, online meetings, and file transfer. While powerful, its interface can sometimes feel less native to macOS compared to Screens 5. TeamViewer offers comprehensive collaborative tools like video conferencing and chat, which Screens 5, being primarily a VNC client, does not natively focus on to the same extent. For general-purpose remote support and cross-organizational access, TeamViewer excels, but for a polished, seamless Apple-centric experience, Screens 5 is often preferred.

RealVNC Viewer

RealVNC Viewer comes from the original inventors of VNC technology, offering secure and reliable remote access across Mac, Windows, Linux, and Raspberry Pi. It provides robust end-to-end encryption and a straightforward VNC connection. While foundational and highly compatible, RealVNC Viewer's user interface and advanced features often feel more utilitarian compared to Screens 5's modern, Apple-native design and advanced quality-of-life enhancements like Screens Connect and Tailscale integration. For raw VNC connectivity and broad server compatibility, RealVNC is a solid choice, but Screens 5 delivers a more refined and integrated user experience.

AnyDesk

AnyDesk is lauded for its lightweight design, quick installation, and low-latency sharing, making it ideal for rapid personal use or urgent assistance. It provides a fast and responsive remote experience across various platforms. However, its free version comes with limitations, and some advanced features may require a paid subscription. Compared to Screens 5, AnyDesk might lack some of the deep Apple ecosystem integrations and the 'local-like' feel, particularly on Mac. For quick, no-frills remote access and excellent performance on constrained networks, AnyDesk is a strong contender, but Screens 5 offers a more comprehensive and refined feature set for Mac users.

Pricing

Paid (Subscription & Lifetime)

Screens 5 operates on a flexible pricing model designed to suit various user preferences. Users can choose between an Annual Subscription at $24.99/year or a Monthly Subscription for $3.99/month. For those preferring a one-time purchase, a Lifetime license is available for $139.99. All plans cover seamless usage across iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Vision Pro, making it a universal purchase for the Apple ecosystem.

Pros

✓Native Apple ecosystem integration with a modern SwiftUI-based interface.
✓Exceptional 'local-like' remote desktop experience with smooth performance.
✓Universal app across iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Vision Pro.
✓Robust security features including SSH keys and biometric authentication.
✓Seamless file transfers via drag and drop between devices.
✓Flexible connection options: Screens Connect, Tailscale, and direct VNC.
✓Multi-display support with intuitive display selection.
✓Responsive and helpful developer support.

Cons

✗Sound transmission is not supported due to VNC protocol limitations.
✗Video playback can be less smooth compared to some specialized alternatives like Jump Desktop.
✗Initial setup, particularly with router configuration for direct VNC, can be challenging for novices.

Community & Ecosystem

Screens 5 benefits from a dedicated and active community, nurtured by Edovia over its 15-year history. Users frequently engage on platforms like Reddit and dedicated forums to share tips, troubleshoot issues, and provide feedback directly to the developers. Edovia maintains a comprehensive support site with FAQs, user guides, and a blog for announcements and updates, including details on Screens Connect and new features. The continuous evolution of Screens, with features like RDP support planned for 5.9 and regular updates for new macOS versions and Apple hardware, reflects a strong commitment to its user base and the broader Apple ecosystem.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Screens

The most significant change with Screens 5 is its transition to a universal app and a subscription-based business model, though a lifetime purchase option is also available. Screens 4 required separate purchases for Mac, iPhone, and iPad. Screens 5 was rewritten using SwiftUI, offering a more cohesive, modern design and enhanced performance across all Apple devices, including native support for Apple Vision Pro. It also introduced a revamped Library for connections, improved toolbar controls, and enhanced security features like biometric authentication. Existing Screens 4 users had an upgrade discount offer for a limited time in early 2026.

Our Verdict

About the Author

Jordan Kim

Productivity & Workflow Analyst

Productivity ApplicationsNote-Taking & Knowledge ManagementTask & Project Management

8+ years in operations management · PMP certified

Related Technologies & Concepts

Screens 5VNCApple SiliconmacOS 26Screens ConnectTailscaleApple Vision ProRDP (Remote Desktop Protocol)

Sources & References

Key Verified Facts

Screens 5 — Complete Guide for Mac Users in 2026 is available for macOS with Homebrew installation support[cite-1]
Screens 5 — Complete Guide for Mac Users in 2026 supports Apple Silicon Macs natively[cite-28]

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