A Chrome Remote Desktop alternative for iPhone and iPad
Google pulled the Chrome Remote Desktop app from iPhone and iPad in 2025. If you used it to get into your Mac from your phone, you lost a simple, free way to do it. Pipa Desk solves the same problem the Apple way: a native app on iPhone and iPad and a small app on your Mac.
How it differs from Chrome Remote Desktop
- No Google account, no account at all. You pair your iPhone with your Mac by scanning a QR code on the Mac's screen.
- Straight between your devices. Picture, sound, keyboard and mouse travel from iPhone to Mac encrypted with TLS 1.3, and no server ever sees your screen.
- Built for touch. Direct touch or trackpad mode, the Mac's three- and four-finger gestures, and a ⌘ ⌥ ⌃ bar for shortcuts.
- Mac only. If you controlled a Windows PC, Pipa Desk isn't for you; see the app comparison.
What it costs
Pipa Host, on your Mac, is free. Pipa Desk, on iPhone and iPad, gives you 20 minutes a day free, no card needed. Unlimited use is a one-time purchase, no subscription, for all your devices and your family.
Switch in a minute
- On your Mac, download Pipa Host, drag it to Applications and grant Screen Recording and Accessibility.
- In the Pipa Host menu, start pairing by QR code.
- On your iPhone, open Pipa, tap + › Scan Mac's QR Code and check the Mac's name.
- Done: your Mac shows up under Your Macs. To use it away from home, see the Tailscale guide.
You can uninstall Chrome Remote Desktop from your Mac afterwards: Pipa Host doesn't need it.
Does Chrome Remote Desktop still work on iPhone?
The iOS app was discontinued in 2025. To reach your Mac from an iPhone you need another app.
Is Pipa Desk free like Chrome Remote Desktop?
Partly: 20 minutes a day are free, with no sign-up. For more time, it's a one-time purchase, no subscription.