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Remote Desktop (Win 11Pro) with Windows App Mobile on iPad-- getting touch screen to work

Jack Generaux 0 Reputation points
2025-03-29T13:00:30.9233333+00:00

Per title, I am able to connect to my Windows 11 with my iPad and moving around the iPad touchscreen moves a cursor, albeit cursor position seems odd. But, tapping will not select anything on the Windows machine. I tried to enable a virtual touchpad on the iPad but that didn't work. Any thoughts? Thank you.Jack

Windows for business | Windows Server | User experience | Remote desktop clients
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  1. Anonymous
    2025-04-01T00:39:45.79+00:00

    Hello，

    Below are some ideas and troubleshooting steps :

    1. Check app and Windows updates

     • Ensure you’re running the latest version of the Microsoft Remote Desktop app on your iPad.

     • Also, verify that your Windows 11 Pro machine is fully updated (sometimes input/gesture bugs are fixed in cumulative updates).

    1. Adjust Display and Resolution Settings

     • Sometimes touch issues occur when the display resolution or scaling is off. In the Remote Desktop app, try modifying the resolution settings for your connection (for example, switching between “Fit to screen” or a fixed resolution) so that the remote desktop maps properly to your iPad’s display.

     • On Windows, check that display scaling (e.g., 100% vs. 125%/150%) isn’t causing misaligned pointer coordinates.

    1. Toggle “Touch Mode” or Virtual Touchpad

     • In some versions of the Remote Desktop app, there’s an option to switch between “mouse pointer” mode and “touch” or “virtual touchpad” mode. If the touchpad icon isn’t working as expected, try tapping it a few times, or consult the app’s help section to confirm that you’re using the most current method for touch emulation.

    1. Consider Tablet Mode / Input Settings on the Host

     • Although Windows 11 is designed to work well with touch natively, remote sessions might benefit from a “tablet mode” feel. While Windows 11 doesn’t have the full tablet-mode toggle as in earlier versions, check Settings → System → Tablet to see if any touch-optimized features can be enabled.

     • Also, verify in Windows’ Remote Desktop settings (or through Group Policy if applicable) that touch input is allowed and properly configured.

    1. Alternative Clients or Workarounds

     • Some users have had better luck with third-party remote desktop clients (such as Jump Desktop) that offer more refined touch controls on iOS.

     • As a workaround, you might try connecting using a Bluetooth mouse with your iPad, which can help confirm if the issue is solely with touch input.

    If the Answer is helpful, please click "Accept Answer" and upvote it.

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