How can I see other Macs and their accessories in AirBuddy?

AirBuddy can display nearby Macs running AirBuddy 3 and accessories connected to them, including Magic Mouse, Magic Keyboard, and Magic Trackpad. This connection also enables Magic Handoff.

Turn on Magic Handoff

Open AirBuddy settings, select Devices, then turn on Enable Magic Handoff on every participating Mac.

Macs using the same Apple Account can establish a secure connection automatically.

Network requirements

AirBuddy must be allowed local network access in System Settings > Privacy & Security > Local Network. For best performance, keep Wi-Fi on, even if not connected to a network.

The Macs must be able to communicate directly on the local network. If a VPN, firewall, or network policy blocks that connection, open Devices settings and turn on Use Bluetooth Low Energy for Magic Handoff. This transport can restore connectivity, but local network communication is generally faster and more responsive.

Every participating Mac must run AirBuddy 3. Its Magic Handoff protocol isn’t compatible with AirBuddy 2.

Pair Macs manually

Use these steps when the Macs use different Apple Accounts or don’t discover each other automatically:

1. Place the Macs near each other and make sure Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are on.
2. Open AirBuddy settings on both Macs and select Devices.
3. Make sure Enable Magic Handoff is on.
4. On both Macs, click the Add button and choose Add New Device.
5. Select Another Mac Running AirBuddy.
6. Select the Mac, then accept the pairing request on the other Mac.