Astropad Launches Workbench, a New Remote Desktop App for Mac, iPhone, and iPad
Astropad has launched Workbench, a new remote desktop app for Mac, iPad, and iPhone, designed to provide responsive, native-feeling remote access for modern workflows including headless Mac systems and AI tasks.
Astropad has introduced Workbench, a remote desktop app that allows users to access and control a Mac from an iPhone, iPad, or another Mac.
The company positions Workbench as a modern remote access tool built specifically for Apple devices, rather than a traditional enterprise-focused remote desktop platform.
What Workbench Does
According to Astropad, Workbench provides full remote access to a Mac over the internet without requiring hardware dongles, cables, or same-network pairing.
As long as the Mac is powered on, awake, and connected to the internet, users can connect remotely from supported Apple devices.
The app includes features designed to make remote control practical on mobile devices, including:
- High-fidelity streaming
- Retina resolution support
- Keyboard input and voice dictation
- Apple Pencil input
- Gesture-based navigation
Workbench also includes a unified display mode that can combine multiple Mac displays into a single view, along with a mini-map for navigating large desktop environments more easily.
Focused on Headless Macs and AI Tasks
One of the key use cases Astropad highlights is remote access for headless Macs, particularly systems like the Mac mini running without a dedicated monitor or peripherals.
According to the company, Workbench can be used to:
- Monitor running jobs in real time
- Review logs
- Restart processes
- Manage remote systems from an iPhone or iPad
That positioning also connects directly to AI-related workflows.
Astropad describes Workbench as a remote desktop tool designed for “the AI era,” with an emphasis on checking in on active processes and unattended machines without needing to remain physically present.
Built on Astropad’s LIQUID Technology
Astropad says Workbench is powered by its proprietary LIQUID technology, the same system used in products like Luna Display and Astropad Studio.
According to the company, LIQUID is designed to improve:
- Latency
- Visual clarity
- Color fidelity
- Overall responsiveness
The system dynamically selects the optimal codec for each frame to maintain performance across different network conditions.
Workbench can also connect through a global relay network spanning 11 regions, allowing sessions to start without manual port forwarding or advanced router configuration.
Astropad’s security documentation states that Workbench uses 256-bit AES end-to-end encryption, does not store or cache screen data, and requires both devices to be signed into the same Workbench account for active sessions.
Pricing, Availability, and Compatibility
Workbench is currently available with a free plan that includes 20 minutes of access per day.
Astropad also offers an unlimited tier priced at:
- $10 per month
- $50 per year
According to its App Store listing, the iPhone app requires iOS 26.0 or later, while the iPad app requires iPadOS 26.0 or later.
Astropad says Workbench is compatible with Mac, iPad, and iPhone devices that meet minimum system requirements. Intel Macs are supported, though Apple silicon is recommended for optimal performance.
Why It Matters
Workbench expands Astropad’s lineup beyond creative tools and display accessories into a broader Mac utility category.
By focusing on remote control for Apple devices, headless Mac setups, and AI-adjacent workflows, the app targets a growing group of users who want to manage their systems from anywhere.
Instead of relying on traditional remote desktop software, Workbench reflects a shift toward tools built specifically for modern, always-on computing environments.