Connect your iPad to KnobShift via Wi-Fi (Network MIDI 2.0)

KnobShift can also connect your iPad to the Mac wirelessly. It uses Network MIDI 2.0, which macOS includes from version 26.4. Setup takes a few minutes and only needs to be done once.

What do you need?#

• A Mac running macOS 26.4 or later. You'll find your version under Apple menu → About This Mac.
• The Mac and iPad on the same Wi-Fi network.
• KnobShift installed on the Mac with KnobShift Companion running. See Install KnobShift on your Mac.

Note: If your Mac runs an older macOS version, connect the iPad with a USB cable. That works with any supported version. Alternatively, update the Mac under System Settings → General → Software Update.

Create the Network MIDI 2.0 session#

1. On the Mac, open Audio MIDI Setup.
2. From the menu, choose Window → Show MIDI Network.
3. Create a new Network MIDI 2.0 session and enable it.
4. Select the iPad in the directory and connect it.

Connect the KnobShift app#

1. Open the KnobShift app on the iPad.
2. Tap the connection status at the top, then Connect, and choose Wi-Fi.
3. Tap Connect via Wi-Fi at the bottom.

The Companion detects the iPad automatically via MIDI-CI. The top of the app then shows Wi-Fi · MIDI 2.0, and the Companion menu lists the iPad under iPad with the suffix “MIDI 2.0”.

What if the Wi-Fi connection doesn't work?#

Go through these questions in order:

1. Is the Mac running macOS 26.4 or later? If not, use USB. In that case the Companion menu itself tells you that Wi-Fi with MIDI 2.0 needs macOS 26.4.
2. Is there an active session with the iPad? Check in Audio MIDI Setup that the iPad is connected in the Network MIDI 2.0 session.
3. Are both on the same Wi-Fi? Guest and school networks often block connections between devices. Then only USB will help.
4. Is network access allowed?
   • iPad: Settings → Privacy & Security → Local Network → turn on KnobShift.
   • Mac: System Settings → Privacy & Security → Local Network → turn on KnobShift Companion.

If it still doesn't work, connect the iPad via USB.

Tip: If values jump or stutter, USB is usually the better choice. The connection is shorter and free of wireless interference. Also close other apps on the iPad.

What's next?#

KnobShift needs a plugin in focus before controls appear: in Logic Pro, insert the KnobShift Bridge; in Ableton Live, enable the KnobShiftRemote remote script. More help is in The KnobShift app can't find the Mac and in the forum.