For support inquiries, bug reports, or feature requests, email us at:
support@tiny-bits.comFrequently asked questions.
What platforms does Tiny Pad support?
The Tiny Pad server runs on Linux (Wayland & X11), macOS (Apple Silicon & Intel), and Windows (10 & 11). The client app runs on iPhone with iOS 16 or later.
Do I need an internet connection?
No. Tiny Pad works entirely over your local network. Your iPhone and computer just need to be on the same Wi-Fi network, or connected via USB for even lower latency. On Windows, USB requires iTunes or the Apple Devices app to be installed. No internet connection or cloud account is required.
Is my data secure?
Yes. All communication between your iPhone and computer is encrypted with DTLS-PSK using AES-128-GCM. Tiny Pad collects zero data. No analytics, no telemetry, no accounts.
How does the free trial work?
Tiny Pad comes with a 7-day free trial that includes all features. After the trial, you can purchase Tiny Pad for $24.99 (one-time) to keep using it forever. No subscription, no recurring charges.
Can I use my Apple Pencil with Tiny Pad?
Yes! Pencil mode (Pro) turns your iPad into a drawing tablet with full Apple Pencil support including pressure sensitivity (65,535 levels) and tilt.
Does the gamepad work with all games?
Tiny Pad emulates a standard gamepad (Xbox-compatible) at the operating system level. Any game that supports controller input will work with Tiny Pad. On Linux, it uses the uinput kernel interface. On Windows, it uses the ViGEmBus driver.
How do I pair my iPhone with the server?
Install the Tiny Pad server on your computer, click 'Add Device', and scan the QR code with the Tiny Pad app on your iPhone. The QR code contains encrypted pairing credentials. That's it. No accounts or sign-up needed.
What's the latency like?
Tiny Pad is optimized for minimal latency. On a typical Wi-Fi network, expect round-trip times of 1-5ms. Connect via USB for even lower latency (on Windows, USB requires iTunes or the Apple Devices app to be installed). The app displays real-time latency measurements so you can monitor your connection quality.
Can I customize the gamepad layout?
Absolutely. In Gamepad mode, tap the wrench icon to enter the layout editor. You can reposition any button, resize controls, toggle visibility, and even add custom keyboard key buttons. There's also a driving wheel mode that uses gyroscope steering for racing games. Save multiple layouts and switch between them instantly.
Is the server open source?
The Tiny Pad server uses several open-source libraries and their licenses are listed in the About screen. Check the app for the most current licensing information.