How to Set Up a Remote Control for iPad Presentations Using Keynote Remote


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A friend recently asked for help with setting up a “remote control” for an iPad presentation. That is, how to wirelessly control a set of Keynote slides running on an iPad connected to a projector. Not surprisingly, there’s an app for that. Apple has an app called Keynote Remote to support your Keynote slideshows.

If you have an iPhone or iPod touch, you can purchase and install the Keynote Remote app from the App Store and use it to control presentation playback on your iPad. You install the Keynote Remote app on your iPhone or iPod touch, then link Keynote on your iPad to the Keynote Remote app on the other device. Here are directions for using Keynote Remote with your iPad.

Install the Keynote Remote app from the App Store on your iPhone or iPod Touch device. The iPad and the other device must be on the same Wi-Fi network or be paired with Bluetooth.

1. Open up Keynote App on iPad.
2. Tap on the Tools icon on top right (wrench/spanner icon)
3. Tap on “Advanced”
4. You will see “Remote” at the bottom of the menu.
5. Tap Remote and set “Enable Remotes” to ON. You should see your iPhone appear.
6. Launch the iPhone Keynote Remote App and go to Settings.
7. Select “New Keynote Link” to get a 4 digit passcode.
8. Return to the iPad Keynote Advanced Settings and click the “Link” button next to the name of your iPhone.
9. Enter the 4-digit passcode to establish the remote control link.

You now have remote control of your iPad Keynote. Choosing “Landscape” will show the current and next slide on your remote. Tap “Play Slideshow” to start.

If the iPad won’t respond or seems to lose the connection, select “Options” on the Remote, End Show, and restart the show


About Andy Brovey

Dr. Andy Brovey, The Portable Prof, teaches about digital tools through his work, websites and social media. In 2007, Apple Inc. recognized his work and named him an Apple Distinguished Educator. He started this iPad Academy website shortly after the first iPad went on sale. On his Freelance Teaching site you'll find the resources you need to teach like a smart entrepreneur.