The ability to display content from a mobile operating system environment directly onto a laptop running macOS enables users to view applications, presentations, or other media on a larger display. This functionality replicates the visual output of a handheld device on a desktop computer, offering enhanced visibility and potentially improved interaction depending on the method employed.
The utility of this connection lies in its facilitation of screen sharing for demonstrations, tutorials, or collaborative work. Further, it offers an alternative viewing experience, circumventing the limitations of smaller mobile screens, and in certain cases, allows for control of the mobile device using the laptop’s input peripherals. The demand for such interoperability has grown in tandem with the increasing ubiquity of mobile devices and the need for seamless data exchange and presentation capabilities.
Several approaches facilitate this mirroring capability, ranging from native software solutions provided by device manufacturers to third-party applications designed for cross-platform screen sharing. The subsequent sections will detail various methods and their respective advantages and disadvantages, along with considerations for security and performance when implementing this functionality.
1. Connectivity Protocol
The connectivity protocol forms the foundational layer for successfully displaying an Android device’s screen on a macOS laptop. The chosen protocol directly impacts data transmission speed, stability, and overall performance of the screen-sharing process. For instance, a Wi-Fi based connection, utilizing protocols such as Miracast (though not natively supported by macOS without adapters) or proprietary streaming protocols, allows for wireless screen replication. However, the quality of the Wi-Fi network significantly influences the user experience; congested networks or weak signals can introduce latency, frame drops, and disconnections. Consequently, a high-bandwidth, low-latency Wi-Fi network is crucial for seamless wireless mirroring.
Alternatively, a USB connection provides a wired alternative, often resulting in more stable and faster data transfer rates. Protocols like Media Transfer Protocol (MTP) or implementations leveraging Android Debug Bridge (ADB) over USB can facilitate screen mirroring. ADB offers advanced control and diagnostic capabilities in addition to screen sharing, making it suitable for developers or users requiring more granular control. A practical example is using ADB to record high-resolution screen captures from an Android device directly onto the macOS system, a task often hindered by Wi-Fi limitations.
In summary, the selection of a connectivity protocol is a critical determinant of the quality of the mirroring experience. Wi-Fi offers convenience but demands a robust network infrastructure, while USB provides reliability and speed at the expense of tethering. Understanding the strengths and limitations of each protocol allows users to optimize their setup for specific use cases, ensuring smooth and efficient viewing of mobile content on a macOS system. Challenges remain in standardizing protocols across devices and operating systems, leading to potential compatibility issues and the necessity for third-party software solutions.
2. Software Compatibility
Software compatibility is a linchpin in establishing a functional connection between an Android device and a macOS laptop for screen replication. The ability of software on both platforms to interact effectively determines the success or failure of the screen sharing process. Disparities in operating system versions, unsupported codecs, or incompatible protocols can prevent successful mirroring or introduce significant performance issues.
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Operating System Version Dependencies
Many screen mirroring applications require specific minimum versions of both Android and macOS for proper operation. An older Android device, running a deprecated operating system, may lack the necessary APIs or security features to interface with a more recent macOS version. Similarly, an outdated macOS installation may not support the communication protocols used by modern Android screen mirroring software. Regular updates of both operating systems are often necessary to maintain compatibility.
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Codec and Format Support
Video and audio data transmitted during screen mirroring relies on specific codecs for encoding and decoding. If the macOS system lacks support for the codecs used by the Android device, video playback may be distorted or completely absent. Similarly, incompatible audio formats can result in silent mirroring. Common codecs like H.264 and AAC are widely supported, but newer or less common codecs may require additional software installations to ensure proper functionality.
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Protocol Implementation Consistency
Protocols like Miracast, Chromecast, and proprietary screen sharing protocols require consistent implementation across both Android and macOS. While Android devices often natively support these protocols, macOS may require third-party applications or adapters to enable compatibility. Discrepancies in protocol versions or incomplete implementations can lead to connection failures or unstable mirroring sessions. Software updates from both device manufacturers and third-party developers are crucial to maintaining protocol consistency.
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Driver and Service Availability
For USB-based screen mirroring, proper drivers and services must be installed and configured on the macOS system. The Android Debug Bridge (ADB), a command-line tool, often necessitates specific drivers to recognize and communicate with the connected Android device. Furthermore, background services responsible for handling screen data and input events must be running correctly. Incorrect driver installations or misconfigured services can prevent the macOS system from detecting and mirroring the Android screen.
The complexities of software compatibility underscore the need for careful consideration when attempting to share an Android screen on a macOS laptop. Addressing these dependencies, through software updates, codec installations, and driver configurations, is critical to establishing a stable and functional screen mirroring connection. The absence of standardized cross-platform protocols contributes to the ongoing challenges in achieving seamless and reliable screen sharing across different device ecosystems.
3. Resolution Quality
Resolution quality is a critical attribute when displaying an Android device’s screen on a macOS laptop, impacting visual clarity, user experience, and the overall utility of the mirroring process. A mismatch between the source resolution and the display capabilities of the macOS screen can lead to pixelation, distortion, or a loss of detail, diminishing the benefits of screen sharing.
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Native Resolution Matching
Optimal display quality is achieved when the resolution of the mirrored Android screen closely matches the native resolution of the macOS display. If the Android device’s output resolution is significantly lower, the macOS system must upscale the image, which can result in a blurry or pixelated appearance. Conversely, if the Android device outputs a higher resolution than the macOS display can handle, the image may be downscaled, potentially losing fine details and text clarity. The goal is to minimize the need for scaling, preserving the original image fidelity.
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Bandwidth and Processing Power Requirements
Higher resolution screen mirroring demands greater bandwidth and processing power from both the Android device and the macOS laptop. Transmitting a 4K resolution image requires substantially more data transfer capacity than transmitting a 720p image. Similarly, the macOS system needs sufficient processing resources to decode, render, and display the high-resolution stream in real-time. Insufficient bandwidth or processing power can lead to lag, stuttering, and a degraded user experience. Wireless connections are particularly susceptible to bandwidth limitations.
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Scaling Algorithms and Artifacts
When resolution scaling is unavoidable, the choice of scaling algorithm can significantly impact the visual outcome. Simple scaling methods, such as nearest-neighbor interpolation, can introduce noticeable pixelation and aliasing artifacts. More sophisticated algorithms, such as bilinear or bicubic interpolation, can produce smoother results but require more processing power. Advanced scaling techniques, such as Lanczos resampling, offer superior quality but may be computationally intensive. The selection of a suitable scaling algorithm involves a trade-off between visual quality and performance.
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Text Clarity and Legibility
Resolution quality directly affects the clarity and legibility of text displayed on the mirrored screen. Lower resolutions can render text blurry or difficult to read, particularly small fonts or complex characters. This can be problematic when sharing documents, presentations, or code snippets. High-resolution displays and appropriate scaling algorithms are essential for preserving text clarity, ensuring that users can easily read and interact with the mirrored content. Subpixel rendering techniques, available on some macOS systems, can further enhance text sharpness.
Ultimately, achieving optimal resolution quality when displaying an Android device’s screen on a macOS laptop requires careful attention to resolution matching, bandwidth considerations, scaling algorithms, and text clarity. These factors interact to determine the overall visual experience and the effectiveness of the screen sharing endeavor. The choice of mirroring software and hardware configuration should be guided by the intended use case and the desired level of visual fidelity.
4. Latency Reduction
Latency, the delay between an action on the Android device and its reflection on the macOS display, directly impacts the usability of screen replication. Minimizing this delay is crucial for applications requiring real-time interaction or precise visual feedback, rendering latency reduction a primary objective.
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Network Optimization
Network latency is a significant contributor to overall delay. Optimizing network configurations, such as prioritizing traffic for screen mirroring applications or utilizing wired connections over Wi-Fi, can substantially reduce latency. For instance, a direct Ethernet connection eliminates the potential for wireless interference and bandwidth contention, resulting in a more responsive mirrored display. Improper network configuration can introduce delays that make interactive applications unusable.
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Codec Selection and Encoding Efficiency
The choice of video codec and its encoding parameters influences the processing time required to compress and decompress the screen data. More efficient codecs, such as H.265 (HEVC) compared to H.264 (AVC), can achieve similar visual quality at lower bitrates and reduced encoding/decoding times. Optimizing encoding parameters, such as frame rate and resolution, to match the specific use case can further minimize latency. A gaming application, for instance, may benefit from a higher frame rate even at the cost of slightly reduced resolution.
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Hardware Acceleration
Leveraging hardware acceleration capabilities on both the Android device and the macOS laptop can significantly reduce processing overhead. Utilizing dedicated graphics processing units (GPUs) for encoding and decoding video data offloads the central processing unit (CPU), resulting in faster processing times and lower latency. Many modern devices and operating systems support hardware acceleration for common codecs. Disabling hardware acceleration, conversely, can lead to increased latency and CPU utilization.
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Buffering Strategies
Buffering, the temporary storage of data before display, is often employed to mitigate network jitter and ensure smooth playback. However, excessive buffering can introduce significant latency. Balancing buffer size against network stability is crucial. Adaptive buffering techniques, which dynamically adjust the buffer size based on network conditions, can help minimize latency while maintaining playback smoothness. A large buffer may prevent stuttering but introduces a noticeable delay between action and display.
Addressing latency in the context of displaying an Android screen on a macOS system necessitates a holistic approach, encompassing network optimization, codec selection, hardware acceleration, and buffering strategies. The effectiveness of these measures determines the responsiveness and overall usability of the mirrored display, particularly for applications requiring real-time interaction or precise visual feedback. Neglecting latency optimization can render the mirroring process impractical for interactive use cases.
5. Security Implications
Displaying an Android device’s screen on a macOS system introduces several security considerations. The data transmitted during screen replication, whether via Wi-Fi or USB, is potentially vulnerable to interception. Wireless connections, in particular, are susceptible to eavesdropping if not properly secured with robust encryption protocols. An attacker intercepting the data stream could gain access to sensitive information displayed on the screen, including personal messages, financial details, or login credentials. For example, if an individual were to mirror their Android device while conducting online banking, an unsecured connection could expose their banking information to malicious actors on the same network. The importance of strong encryption, such as WPA3 for Wi-Fi connections, cannot be overstated in mitigating this risk. The selection of screen mirroring software with verified security practices is also critical.
Further, the control mechanisms employed for screen mirroring can also present security vulnerabilities. If the macOS system gains control over the Android device’s input, a compromised macOS system could potentially execute malicious commands on the Android device without the user’s knowledge. This could involve installing unauthorized applications, modifying system settings, or accessing sensitive data stored on the device. The Android Debug Bridge (ADB), while a powerful tool for developers, presents a significant security risk if not properly secured. Unauthorized access to ADB could allow an attacker to completely control the Android device remotely. Therefore, rigorous authentication and authorization mechanisms are necessary to prevent unauthorized control of the Android device during screen mirroring sessions. Real-world scenarios involve using a compromised developer workstation to push malware to a connected device.
In summary, the process of displaying an Android screen on a macOS system necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the associated security implications. Data encryption, secure control mechanisms, and the use of reputable screen mirroring software are crucial to protecting sensitive information and preventing unauthorized access. Addressing these security concerns is paramount to ensuring that screen mirroring is conducted safely and securely. The challenges involve balancing usability with robust security measures, requiring users to be vigilant about the risks and to implement appropriate safeguards.
6. Control Methods
Control methods define the extent to which a macOS system can interact with an Android device during screen sharing. The available control mechanisms directly impact the functionality and user experience of mirroring a mobile interface on a larger display, dictating whether the interaction is limited to simple viewing or extends to full device manipulation.
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View-Only Mirroring
The most basic control method restricts the macOS system to displaying the Android device’s screen without enabling any input capabilities. This approach is suitable for presentations or demonstrations where remote control is unnecessary. Data transmission is unidirectional, flowing from the Android device to the macOS system. A real-world example is displaying a static report or video from a mobile device onto a larger screen without needing to interact with the content. This method minimizes security risks as it prevents any potential unauthorized control of the Android device from the macOS system.
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Mouse and Keyboard Control
This method allows users to interact with the Android device using the mouse and keyboard connected to the macOS system. Input events, such as clicks and key presses, are transmitted from the macOS system to the Android device, enabling users to navigate menus, type text, and control applications remotely. This is particularly useful for productivity tasks, such as editing documents or managing emails, on a larger screen. Software like Vysor exemplifies this functionality. However, security considerations arise as the macOS system gains control over the Android device’s input, requiring careful attention to authentication and authorization mechanisms.
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Touchscreen Emulation
Some screen mirroring solutions emulate touchscreen input on the macOS system, allowing users to interact with the Android device by clicking or tapping on the mirrored screen. This is particularly useful for applications designed primarily for touch-based interaction, such as games or drawing apps. The accuracy and responsiveness of touchscreen emulation directly impact the user experience. For instance, a drawing application may require precise input to produce accurate lines. Input lag or inaccurate touch registration can diminish the usability of such applications. This method necessitates precise calibration and reliable communication between the mirroring software on both devices.
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Clipboard Sharing
Clipboard sharing enables seamless transfer of text and other data between the Android device and the macOS system. Users can copy content on one device and paste it on the other, facilitating data exchange between the two platforms. This is particularly useful for copying URLs, passwords, or other short snippets of text. The implementation of clipboard sharing requires careful handling of data formats and encoding to ensure compatibility across different operating systems. Moreover, security considerations dictate that sensitive information should be handled securely during clipboard transfers to prevent unauthorized access.
The choice of control methods significantly influences the functionality and security of displaying an Android screen on a macOS system. Each method offers a unique set of capabilities and associated risks, requiring users to carefully consider their specific needs and priorities. Balancing usability with security is paramount in selecting the appropriate control method for a given screen mirroring application. The increasing demand for seamless cross-platform interaction drives the ongoing development of more sophisticated and secure control mechanisms.
7. Audio Transmission
Audio transmission constitutes an integral component when displaying an Android device’s screen on a macOS system. The successful transfer of audio signals, concurrently with visual data, significantly enhances the overall user experience, particularly in scenarios involving multimedia content, video conferencing, or gaming. The absence of audio transmission renders the mirrored display incomplete, limiting its utility for applications that rely on auditory feedback or communication. For instance, mirroring a video playback application without audio effectively negates the experience for the end-user, eliminating a crucial sensory component. The quality of audio transmission, including factors such as clarity, latency, and synchronization with visual elements, directly impacts the perceived value of the mirroring process.
Several factors influence the feasibility and fidelity of audio transmission during screen mirroring. The choice of connectivity protocol, whether Wi-Fi or USB, plays a significant role in determining available bandwidth and potential latency. Wireless connections may experience audio dropouts or synchronization issues due to network congestion or interference. Conversely, USB connections typically provide a more stable and reliable audio transmission path. Software compatibility also impacts audio transmission capabilities. The mirroring application must support the audio codecs utilized by the Android device and the macOS system to ensure seamless playback. Furthermore, proper audio routing and device selection within the macOS system are crucial for directing the audio output to the desired speakers or headphones. A practical application arises during remote collaboration, where clear audio transmission is as vital as video for effective communication, especially during presentations or group discussions mirrored from an Android tablet.
In conclusion, audio transmission is an indispensable element in replicating an Android screen on a macOS system, contributing significantly to the completeness and usability of the mirrored display. Challenges related to bandwidth limitations, software compatibility, and audio routing necessitate careful consideration to ensure optimal audio quality and synchronization. As screen mirroring technology continues to evolve, the seamless integration of high-fidelity audio transmission will remain a critical factor in delivering a comprehensive and engaging user experience. Understanding these nuances offers a greater ability to troubleshoot and enhance the screen replication process.
8. Application Support
The capability to display an Android devices interface on a macOS system is intrinsically linked to application support. The mirroring softwares effectiveness is contingent upon its compatibility with a wide spectrum of applications running on the Android device. The ability to accurately render and transmit the visual and auditory output of these applications, without distortion or functional degradation, defines the utility of the screen-sharing endeavor. Compatibility issues frequently arise when mirroring applications that utilize proprietary codecs, specialized graphics rendering techniques, or rely on device-specific hardware features. For instance, certain gaming applications may experience reduced frame rates, graphical glitches, or input lag when mirrored due to inadequate application support within the screen-sharing software. Screen mirroring solutions must implement robust application support to facilitate seamless operation across diverse application types.
Furthermore, application support encompasses the handling of input events originating from the macOS system and their accurate translation to the Android environment. Applications that rely heavily on touch-based interactions necessitate precise and responsive input emulation for effective remote control. Inadequate application support may result in inaccurate gesture recognition, delayed responses, or the complete failure of certain application features. Collaboration tools, presentation applications, and educational software often require bidirectional communication between the mirrored devices, thus further underlining the importance of application support. Real-world instances may include using screen replication for remote assistance, thus enabling a support technician to control an Android device from a macOS system for troubleshooting purposes.
In conclusion, application support is a pivotal determinant of the overall success of replicating an Android screen on a macOS system. The ability to accurately and reliably mirror a wide range of applications, while preserving their functionality and responsiveness, is essential for a seamless user experience. Challenges in maintaining comprehensive application support stem from the constant evolution of Android applications and the diversity of hardware configurations. Screen mirroring solutions must continually adapt and update their application support to ensure compatibility and optimal performance. The understanding of this connection enables improved screen replication experiences.
9. Stability Assurance
Stability assurance, in the context of displaying an Android screen on a MacBook, represents the reliability and consistency of the screen sharing connection over time. This encompasses freedom from unexpected disconnections, software crashes, and performance degradation. Achieving stability is paramount for ensuring a productive and uninterrupted user experience.
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Connection Protocol Reliability
The underlying connection protocol significantly impacts stability. Wired connections, such as USB, generally offer greater stability compared to wireless protocols like Wi-Fi, as they are less susceptible to interference and signal fluctuations. A robust connection protocol minimizes the likelihood of dropped connections during prolonged screen sharing sessions. For example, utilizing ADB over USB provides a more stable screen mirroring experience than relying on a fluctuating Wi-Fi signal, especially in environments with multiple wireless devices.
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Software Resource Management
Efficient resource management by the screen mirroring software is crucial for preventing performance degradation over time. Memory leaks, excessive CPU usage, and inefficient threading models can lead to instability and eventual crashes. The software should be designed to minimize its resource footprint and gracefully handle unexpected events. If the software consumes excessive system resources, it can result in the MacOS system becoming unresponsive or unstable, undermining the entire screen sharing process.
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Error Handling and Recovery
A robust error handling mechanism is essential for gracefully recovering from unexpected errors or exceptions during screen mirroring. The software should be able to detect and handle errors without crashing or disrupting the connection. Mechanisms should be in place to automatically reconnect after a temporary disruption, such as a brief network outage. If the software encounters an unhandled exception, it can result in a system crash, thereby disrupting the overall continuity of the mirrored environment.
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Cross-Platform Compatibility Testing
Thorough cross-platform compatibility testing across diverse Android and macOS versions is necessary to identify and resolve potential stability issues. Incompatibilities between operating system versions, driver conflicts, or unsupported codecs can lead to unpredictable behavior and instability. Rigorous testing helps ensure consistent and reliable performance across various hardware and software configurations. An example would be testing screen mirroring software on multiple MacOS versions to ensure the Android content can consistently be shared.
These facets collectively underscore the importance of stability assurance in facilitating a reliable and seamless experience when sharing an Android screen on a MacBook. The absence of stability compromises the usability of the screen mirroring solution and diminishes its value for applications requiring prolonged or uninterrupted operation. Stability is a key performance indicator, crucial for the long-term utility of this capability.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the ability to display content from Android devices onto macOS laptops. The following questions and answers aim to clarify technical aspects, compatibility concerns, and potential limitations.
Question 1: What are the primary methods to share an Android screen on a MacBook?
Methods include using a USB connection with Android Debug Bridge (ADB), utilizing third-party applications such as Vysor or AirDroid, and employing wireless mirroring protocols if supported by both devices and appropriate software. Native support for Miracast is not inherent in macOS; therefore, adapters or software solutions are typically necessary for wireless mirroring.
Question 2: Is a wired connection more stable than a wireless connection for screen sharing?
Generally, a USB connection offers a more stable and reliable experience compared to Wi-Fi due to reduced interference and lower latency. Wireless connections are susceptible to network congestion, signal fluctuations, and other environmental factors that can disrupt the screen mirroring process.
Question 3: What are the typical system requirements on both the Android and macOS devices?
Minimum system requirements vary depending on the chosen method and software. However, newer operating system versions on both devices generally provide better compatibility and performance. Adequate processing power and sufficient RAM are also essential for smooth screen mirroring, especially at higher resolutions.
Question 4: Can the MacBook control the Android device during screen sharing?
Control capabilities depend on the specific screen sharing solution implemented. Some applications allow full control of the Android device using the MacBook’s mouse and keyboard, while others offer view-only mirroring. Android Debug Bridge (ADB) provides extensive control capabilities, but requires technical expertise and careful configuration.
Question 5: What security considerations should be addressed when mirroring an Android screen to a MacBook?
Ensure that the Wi-Fi network is secured with a strong password and encryption (e.g., WPA3). When using third-party applications, verify their security credentials and permissions. Exercise caution when granting control permissions to the MacBook, as a compromised system could potentially access or manipulate data on the Android device.
Question 6: What factors contribute to latency during screen mirroring?
Latency can be affected by network bandwidth, processing power of both devices, the efficiency of the encoding and decoding algorithms, and the distance between the devices in a wireless setup. Reducing network congestion, optimizing software settings, and utilizing a wired connection can help minimize latency.
The ability to successfully replicate a mobile interface on a desktop operating system hinges on several factors. These include appropriate configurations, security awareness, and system compatibilities.
The upcoming section will address best practices to further refine the approach.
Tips for Optimizing Display of an Android Screen on a MacBook
These recommendations are designed to enhance the experience of displaying content from a mobile operating system environment onto a macOS laptop. Implementing these suggestions can lead to improved visual clarity, reduced latency, and greater overall efficiency.
Tip 1: Utilize a High-Quality USB Cable: Employing a USB cable compliant with USB 3.0 or higher specifications can significantly improve data transfer rates, resulting in reduced latency and a more stable connection compared to older USB standards. Data transmission speeds are crucial for minimizing lag during screen sharing.
Tip 2: Minimize Background Processes: Terminating unnecessary applications and processes on both the Android device and the MacBook frees up system resources, thereby improving performance and reducing the likelihood of interruptions during screen mirroring. Excessive background activity can consume valuable processing power and network bandwidth.
Tip 3: Adjust Resolution Settings: Experiment with different resolution settings on the Android device to find a balance between visual quality and performance. Lowering the resolution can reduce the amount of data that needs to be transmitted, potentially improving responsiveness and reducing latency, especially on wireless connections. Prioritize frame rate over resolution where immediate reaction is required.
Tip 4: Select the Optimal Codec: When using applications that offer codec selection, opt for codecs known for their efficiency and compatibility with both Android and macOS, such as H.264. Inefficient codecs can increase processing overhead and introduce latency. The chosen codec should be supported by both sending and receiving devices.
Tip 5: Secure the Wireless Network: When utilizing a wireless connection, ensure that the Wi-Fi network is protected with a strong password and utilizes a modern encryption protocol (WPA3). An unsecured network can be vulnerable to eavesdropping and interference, compromising both security and performance.
Tip 6: Update Software Regularly: Maintaining the latest versions of the operating systems, drivers, and screen mirroring applications on both the Android device and the MacBook is crucial for ensuring compatibility, security, and optimal performance. Software updates often include bug fixes and performance improvements that can enhance stability.
Tip 7: Disable Bluetooth When Using Wi-Fi: If Wi-Fi connectivity is being employed, disabling Bluetooth can mitigate potential interference, particularly within the 2.4 GHz frequency band. Bluetooth devices can cause network contention, leading to decreased speeds and stability.
Implementing these tips can substantially enhance the stability, security, and performance of the process. Consistent attention to these areas can offer the users increased opportunities to display the android screen on the macbook
Consideration is to be given to the conclusion for the article
Conclusion
This exploration has detailed the multifaceted considerations involved in the ability to share android screen on macbook. Factors ranging from connectivity protocols and software compatibility to resolution quality, latency reduction, and security implications have been analyzed. Furthermore, control methods, audio transmission, application support and stability assurance have been addressed. Optimizing these elements is critical for achieving a reliable and efficient mirroring experience. The utilization of various techniques, from USB connections to third-party software, presents diverse options for users with varying technical expertise.
As mobile and desktop operating systems continue to evolve, the demand for seamless cross-platform integration will likely increase. Continued attention to standardization, security protocols, and performance enhancements will be essential to facilitating a secure and user-friendly experience. Users are encouraged to remain informed about emerging technologies and best practices to maximize the potential of this capability and mitigate potential risks. The ability to share android screen on macbook enables unique capabilities in collaboration, presentation and content delivery, however security awareness is recommended.