Elgato Expands Stream Deck Compatibility to Apple Tablets

In an effort to provide a more comprehensive and versatile streaming experience, Elgato has announced that its popular Stream Deck device will soon be compatible with Apple tablets. This expansion of compatibility is made possible through the company’s new Stream Deck Kit SDK, which allows developers to create iPadOS-compatible apps for the device.

Currently in alpha testing, the Stream Deck Connect app is available as a TestFlight beta, and it provides the necessary driver to communicate with the hardware. The Stream Deck itself connects to the iPad via direct USB-C connection or through the use of a USB-C hub. Elgato plans to support all models of the Stream Deck, including the Stream Deck+, Stream Deck MK.2, and Stream Deck Mini, as well as the large Stream Deck XL with 32 buttons.

According to Elgato, the iPad integration will allow streamers and content creators to control their apps with tactile buttons, just like they would on a Mac or PC. This new compatibility is expected to be available later this year, and the company believes that any app can be integrated with the Stream Deck, given enough developer support.

In a video released in July, Elgato demonstrates how the iPad integration will work, showcasing the use of the Elgato Capture app for the iPad to start recordings, adjust the frame rate, and activate the full-screen mode. However, there is a limitation to the current iPadOS version, which prevents apps from being controlled when they are running in the background. This issue would require changes from Apple on the iPadOS side, but the company has not made any moves to address this yet.

As a result, the rendering in Final Cut Pro for the iPad only works when the app is in the foreground, which blocks the entire system. Despite this limitation, Elgato’s expansion of the Stream Deck’s compatibility with Apple tablets is an exciting development for streamers and content creators who want to take advantage of the device’s tactile controls and versatility.

With this announcement, Elgato continues to push the boundaries of streaming technology, providing users with more options and flexibility in how they create and share their content. Whether you’re a seasoned streamer or just starting out, the Stream Deck is an essential tool for anyone looking to elevate their streaming experience.