No Extended Displays on MacBook Using SplitXtend

If you are not getting extended displays while using SplitXtend with your MacBook, this is usually not a hardware issue.
The number of external displays you can use is entirely dependent on your Mac model and chipset, as defined by Apple.

SplitXtend adapters and docks can only work within the limits set by macOS and Apple silicon.

Supported External Displays by Mac Model

Use the table below to understand how many external displays your Mac officially supports.

Important Notes (Very Important)

• Display limits are set by Apple’s chipset, not by adapters, docks, or splitters.

• No HDMI splitter, USB-C hub, or Thunderbolt dock can bypass Apple’s native display limitation.

• Some DisplayLink-based docks may allow additional displays, but:

  • macOS compatibility

  • system performance

  • driver support
    can vary depending on macOS version.

• Always verify your exact Mac model on Apple’s official specifications page.

How SplitXtend Works on macOS

OREI SplitXtend models work using:

• USB-C / Thunderbolt 3 or 4, or

• USB 3.0, with the help of DisplayLink or Silicon Motion drivers

To enable extended displays, macOS requires Screen Recording permission.

Why Screen Recording Permission Is Required

macOS treats DisplayLink / Silicon Motion drivers as a security-sensitive service.
Although no video is actually recorded, macOS requires this permission to allow the driver to create extended displays.

You must allow Screen Recording permission for the driver, or extended displays will not work.

macOS Update Requirement (macOS Tahoe 26.2)

With the newer macOS Tahoe 26.2 update, Apple introduced additional display-sharing controls.

macOS now uses Presenter Preview, which allows you to choose:

• An individual app, or

• Your entire screen

before sharing content to an external display or AirPlay device.

If this setting is not configured correctly, external displays may not extend as expected.

📘 Apple explains this feature in detail here:
https://support.apple.com/en-us/120283

Please review and adjust these settings if you are running macOS Tahoe 26.2 or newer.

What to Check If Displays Are Not Extending

1. Confirm your Mac model’s official display limit.

2. Ensure the DisplayLink / Silicon Motion driver is installed.

3. Grant Screen Recording permission in macOS settings.

4. Review Presenter Preview / display sharing settings (macOS Tahoe 26.2+).

5. Restart your Mac after changing permissions.

Still Not Working?

If you have completed all the steps above and your displays are still not extending:

Please contact the OREI Support Team with:

• Your Mac model

• macOS version

• SplitXtend model

• Number of displays connected

Our support team will be happy to assist you further.