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How to Control a PowerPoint Presentation from an iPhone or iPad
Question details
The user wants to control a PC-based PowerPoint presentation remotely using an iPhone or iPad, view slides independently, and use a touch-controlled laser pointer.
- Product
- PowerPoint
- Device & OS
- iOS (iPhone/iPad) and Windows PC
- Scenario
- Presenting a slideshow where the user needs mobility away from the computer and wants to use their iOS device as a remote clicker and laser pointer.
- Observed behavior
- The user needs a working solution since the official Microsoft Office Remote app is discontinued and incompatible with modern iOS devices.
Ensure both your presentation computer and your iPhone or iPad are connected to the same stable Wi-Fi network, as most remote control applications require a strong local connection to function smoothly.
Use a Remote Desktop Application
Since Microsoft Office Remote is discontinued, using a reputable remote desktop app is the most reliable method to control your PC presentation.
Microsoft previously offered 'Office Remote' for PC, but it is discontinued and only worked on older systems (Windows Phone 8, Office 2013). Today, third-party remote desktop tools like GoToMyPC, Chrome Remote Desktop, or TeamViewer are the best alternatives to control your PC directly from a mobile device.
Install a remote desktop application (such as Chrome Remote Desktop) on both your PC and your iOS device from the Apple App Store.
Open the app on your PC to generate a pairing code or sign in to your account, then follow the app's instructions on your iPad or iPhone to establish a connection.
Open your PowerPoint presentation on the PC and launch the slideshow mode.
Use your iPhone or iPad screen to view the desktop, tap to navigate through slides, and control the presentation remotely.
Use a Dedicated Presentation Remote App
Download a third-party app specifically designed to turn your iPhone or iPad into a presentation clicker.
Use WPS Office to Control Presentations from Your Phone
WPS Office offers a built-in projection and remote-control feature. You can easily control a presentation running on your PC directly from the WPS Office app on your iPhone or iPad without needing expensive third-party remote desktop tools.
- 1. Open presentation on PC: Launch WPS Office on your computer, open your presentation file, and navigate to the 'Slide Show' tab.
- 2. Start SharePlay: Click on 'SharePlay' or the 'Mobile Phone Control' option to display a QR code on your computer screen.
- 3. Scan with iOS device: Open the WPS Office mobile app on your iPhone or iPad, tap the 'Scan' icon, and scan the QR code displayed on your PC.
- 4. Control your slides: Your iOS device is now synced. You can swipe to change slides, view your speaker notes, and use the built-in laser pointer tool during your presentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still use Microsoft Office Remote on my new iPhone?
No, Microsoft Office Remote is discontinued. It was originally designed for Windows Phone 8 and older versions of Office (like Office 2013), and is no longer available or functional on modern iOS devices.
Do I need Wi-Fi to control a presentation from my iPad?
Yes, most remote desktop applications and dedicated presentation remote apps require both your PC and iPad to be connected to the same local Wi-Fi network to communicate effectively with minimal lag.
Can I view slide notes on my iPhone while presenting on a PC?
Yes. If you use a dedicated presentation app or the built-in remote features in software like WPS Office, you can view your speaker notes privately on your mobile device while the audience sees only the main slides on the PC.
