How to Copy and Paste Between Apple Devices
Universal Clipboard lets you copy on one Apple device and paste on another nearby device using the same Apple Account and Handoff.
Check both devices first
Apple lists four setup requirements: keep the devices near each other, sign in with the same Apple Account, enable Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and turn on Handoff. Your devices must also meet the compatibility requirements linked from Apple’s Universal Clipboard instructions.
The Wi-Fi requirement is to have it turned on. Apple does not list joining the same Wi-Fi network as a condition.
Turn on Handoff
On iPhone or iPad, open Settings, then General. Choose AirPlay & Continuity, or AirPlay & Handoff on versions using that name, and enable Handoff.
On macOS Ventura 13 or later, open System Settings, then General. Under AirDrop & Continuity, or AirDrop & Handoff, allow Handoff with your iCloud devices. Earlier macOS versions place the option under General in System Preferences. Apple’s Handoff setup guide documents these menu variations.
Copy, then paste on the other device
Copy the text or image as you normally would. Move to the nearby device and paste it into the destination app.
The copied content is available briefly and is replaced when you copy something else on either device. Paste before copying another item.
A useful first check is a short line of text. Once that works, try the image or other content you wanted to move.
If Universal Clipboard is not working
Recheck the account, distance and settings on both devices. Apple then recommends installing available software updates and restarting the devices.
For related capture tasks, see our guides to screenshots on Mac and screenshots on iPhone. The Apple coverage hub brings the wider archive together.
