An iPad is an easy way to check on or control a Raspberry Pi you’ve tucked away somewhere else in the house, or left running a project unattended. RealVNC Server comes built in to Raspberry Pi OS, so once it’s enabled, RealVNC Connect turns your iPad into a full remote control for the Pi’s desktop.
Why use an iPad to access a Raspberry Pi
Many Raspberry Pi projects run headless, with no monitor ever connected, which makes an occasional graphical check-in awkward without remote access. RealVNC Connect gives you the Pi’s actual desktop on your iPad, wherever the Pi itself happens to be.
What you’ll need
- A Raspberry Pi running Raspberry Pi OS, connected to a network
- An iPad running a supported version of iPadOS
- A RealVNC Connect account – a free trial is available
- An internet connection on both devices
Step 1: Enable RealVNC Server on your Raspberry Pi
- Boot into the Raspberry Pi’s graphical desktop, then select Menu > Preferences > Raspberry Pi Configuration > Interfaces and make sure VNC is set to Enabled. (Alternatively, run sudo raspi-config, then choose Interface Options > VNC > Yes.)
- Sign up for a RealVNC account, if you don’t already have one.
- On the Raspberry Pi, select Licensing from the RealVNC Server status menu, then enter your RealVNC account’s email and password and follow the on-screen instructions.
- Your Raspberry Pi will now appear automatically as a connection in RealVNC Viewer on any device signed in to the same RealVNC account.
Step 2: Install RealVNC Viewer on your iPad
- On your device, open the App Store and download the RealVNC Viewer: Remote Desktop app.
- Open the app and sign in using your RealVNC account credentials.
Your Raspberry Pi will appear automatically in your list of remote computers.
Step 3: Connect to your Raspberry Pi from your iPad
Tap your Raspberry Pi in the list to connect.
Authenticating
You’ll be asked to authenticate. Enter the username and password you normally use to log on to your user account on the Raspberry Pi – not your RealVNC account details.
A note on cloud vs. local connections from iPad
Direct (local network) connections aren’t available when connecting from a mobile device, so a connection from your iPad always uses RealVNC’s encrypted cloud connection. Sign in with the same RealVNC account on the Raspberry Pi and the iPad and there’s nothing else to configure.
Troubleshooting common issues
- Raspberry Pi not listed in RealVNC Viewer: confirm VNC is enabled in Raspberry Pi Configuration, and that both devices are signed in to the same RealVNC account.
- Can’t authenticate: use your Raspberry Pi user account’s username and password, not your RealVNC account credentials.
- Blank or black screen: make sure the Raspberry Pi is booted into its graphical desktop and not just a command-line session.
Start controlling your Raspberry Pi from iPad with RealVNC Connect
RealVNC Connect offers a free trial with no credit card required, so you can try accessing your Raspberry Pi from your iPad before subscribing.
FAQs
Can I access a Raspberry Pi from an iPad?
Yes. Enable RealVNC Server in Raspberry Pi Configuration, install the RealVNC Viewer app on your iPad, then sign in with the same RealVNC account on both.
Does my Raspberry Pi need a monitor attached?
No, as long as it’s booted into its graphical desktop. Many Raspberry Pi setups run headless with RealVNC Connect providing the only screen.
Can I use a keyboard with my iPad to control the Pi?
Yes. RealVNC Viewer works with a Bluetooth or connected physical keyboard, as well as the on-screen keyboard.
Is a local Wi-Fi connection required?
No. Connections from mobile devices always use RealVNC’s cloud connection, so it works over Wi-Fi or mobile data.
