Remember Astropad? Those creative minds who turned the iPad into a professional drawing tablet are back with something completely different. They've launched Workbench for Mac, which isn't just another remote control app; they describe it as "a remote desktop designed for the age of artificial intelligence." Controlling your computer from your bed isn't enough anymore; now you can do it smarter and with incredible power right in the palm of your hand.
A new way to access your Mac via iPhone and iPad
Workbench includes native apps for Mac, iPhone, and iPad. Astropad boasts fast, high-quality streaming with Retina display support, giving you incredibly sharp visuals that are virtually indistinguishable from sitting in front of a real screen. It's not just about seeing; it's about fully interacting with your device from anywhere.
The app supports voice input for control, allowing you to dictate commands and prompts from your mobile device directly to your Mac. This is very useful if you're working with AI tools and need to type lengthy prompts without a physical keyboard, although the app also fully supports keyboard shortcuts.
Smart AI workflow design
Workbench combines multiple Mac monitors into a single screen that adapts to the resolution of your mobile device. The Mini-map view also provides a quick way to navigate large desktops, a feature that users of large monitors who sometimes feel overwhelmed will appreciate.
The app was specifically designed with AI workflows in mind. Imagine leaving your Mac to process massive amounts of data or run AI agents while you go for a walk; now, with Workbench, you can monitor what's happening, issue new commands, and ensure everything is running smoothly while enjoying your coffee outside.
Liquid engine: The secret behind speed
What sets Workbench apart from other remote desktop solutions is Astropad's proprietary Liquid engine. This is the same technology that powers their popular products like Luna Display and Astropad Studio, known for their exceptional speed and unparalleled clarity. Using this technology means significantly less latency and a much smoother experience.
For security, Workbench uses full end-to-end encryption (AES-256) to ensure your privacy. The app requires iOS 26 and macOS 15 or later to function. While it supports Macs with Intel processors, the company strongly recommends using Macs with Apple Silicon processors for optimal performance.
Pricing and free trial
Workbench is available for a free 20-minute daily trial on Mac, enough for a quick look or to tackle an urgent task. For a continuous, unlimited connection, the cost is $10 per month or $50 per year.
Source:
9 comment