Stream Deck Mobile now connects via USB

Good news for anyone using the Stream Deck Mobile app on iPhone or iPad to control notation software (or anything else on their computer): The latest version of the app, version 2.3.1 as of today, permits the Stream Deck app to use the device’s USB to connect directly, instead of relying on WiFi.

In addition to requiring version 2.3.1 of the Stream Deck Mobile app, the Stream Deck desktop app must also be updated, to version 6.7.

Last year, Elgato released a major update to the Stream Deck Mobile app that supported iPads natively for the first time, allowing Stream Deck Mobile users with a Pro license to enjoy not just the same 8 x 4 configuration that’s supported on the Stream Deck XL, but an even larger 8 x 8 configuration, if desired. This was great news for all Stream Deck Mobile users, but especially our Notation Express customers that use Notation Express XL profiles for Sibelius and Dorico.

However, Stream Deck Mobile was still reliant upon the iPhone or iPad, and the connected computer, to have stable WiFi access and to be on the same network. While not an impediment for stationary setups, it was a drawback for what would otherwise be the most appealing type of use, during travel or other secondary locations where WiFi is unavailable.

Now, that deficiency has been remedied, and you can connect your iPhone or iPad to your computer using a regular USB cable, and the Stream Deck Mobile app will communicate with your computer directly over that connection.

Setup is easy.

Update the Stream Deck Mobile app and Stream Deck desktop app

Update the Stream Deck Mobile app, to version 2.3.1 as of today, on your iPhone or iPad in the usual manner, either through automatic updates or through the iOS/iPadOS App Store.

Separately, update the Stream Deck app on your computer (Windows or Mac), in the Stream Deck Preferences > General > Check for Updates… so that the version is 6.7 or later.

You’ll see this exciting notice:

Connect Stream Deck Mobile to your computer

Plug in a USB cable that connects your iPhone or iPad to your computer.

Open the newly-updated Stream Deck Mobile app on your iPhone or iPad. You should see available computers here, and the computer that is connected via USB will have a cable icon next to it (yes, it’s a cable, not a person).

If you’ve already set up your iPhone or iPad, you should be able to skip most of these steps, but if this is your first time connecting, you can add a virtual device, and name it whatever you like.

Select the layout most suited to your Stream Deck setup; if you’re looking to mimic the Stream Deck XL, i.e., for use with the Notation Express XL profiles for Sibelius and Dorico, choose XL (8 x 4).

You should see the default Stream Deck profile and a Connected via USB message.

Copy any profiles to your virtual device

If you already have profiles on another device, you can simply copy them over to your new virtual device, in the Stream Deck desktop app. Simply go to Preferences > Profiles, and choose the profile you wish to copy. Right-click (Control-click on Mac), choose Copy to and choose your new virtual device from the list.

This is a very useful update for anyone using the Stream Deck Mobile app. It took a while for this feature to be introduced, but it’s worth the wait. Now you can go anywhere and enjoy using the Stream Deck Mobile app — and Notation Express — with your computer, without needing to connect to WiFi.

Just don’t leave home without your USB cable!