Astropad released Workbench 1.3 on Wednesday, adding faster streaming and a privacy curtain for its remote-desktop application [1], [2].
This update addresses critical needs for remote professionals who require high-performance connectivity and security when accessing their Mac computers from a distance.
The release is the largest update to the remote desktop app since its launch earlier this year [1]. A primary focus of the version 1.3 rollout is the enhancement of streaming performance, which is now 30% faster [2]. This improvement aims to reduce latency and provide a more responsive experience for users operating software remotely.
Security is another central component of the update. Astropad introduced a privacy curtain feature designed for unattended Mac access [1], [2]. This tool allows users to mask the physical screen of the host Mac while it is being controlled remotely, preventing bystanders from seeing sensitive data on the local monitor.
Beyond the primary features, the company focused on stability and reliability. The update includes 71 bug fixes [2] to resolve various technical issues reported by the user base since the app's initial release.
Astropad said the update is available globally via an online software update [1], [2]. The company said the goal of the release was to improve streaming performance, add privacy protections, and address reliability issues [1], [2].
“The release is the largest update to the remote desktop app since its launch earlier this year.”
The addition of a privacy curtain and significant speed boosts suggests Astropad is positioning Workbench to compete more aggressively with enterprise-grade remote desktop solutions. By focusing on the 'unattended access' use case, the company is moving beyond simple screen mirroring toward a comprehensive remote workstation model that prioritizes both security and performance.
