> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.sevenpens.com/drawtab/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.sevenpens.com/drawtab/guides/connecting/connecting-pen-display/pen-display-with-mobile-device.md).

# Connecting a pen display to a mobile device

## Overview

This guide focuses on how a pen display connects to a mobile device, such as a phone. It is a subset of the broader guide [Connecting a pen display](/drawtab/guides/connecting/connecting-pen-display.md), but it focuses on the issues that come up with mobile devices.

More details in these articles:

* [Using drawing tablets with Android devices](/drawtab/guides/platforms/android/using-drawtabs-with-android.md)
* [Using drawing tablets with an iPad or iPhone](/drawtab/guides/platforms/ios-and-ipados/drawtabs-with-ios.md)

## Key requirements and realities

* **USB-C port on the mobile device**
  * Your mobile device must have a USB-C port.
  * Your mobile device's USB-C port must support DP alt mode. Not all USB-C ports support DP alt mode.
* **USB-C cable connecting the phone to the tablet**
  * This cable must also support DP alt mode.
* **Compatibility between pen display and a phone**
  * Even if your phone's USB-C port supports DP alt mode, your phone still may not support pen displays. A good example is iPhones. They do not work with pen displays.
  * A pen display may be compatible with some mobile devices but not others. You should contact the manufacturer and ensure which phones they support with their tablets.
* **Power**
  * Your pen display needs power from somewhere.
  * Most likely, your mobile device cannot provide enough power, so you will need a separate power source.