Frequently Asked Questions
General
What is BlackboardView?
BlackboardView is an iPad app for teachers. It splits your lesson into two parts: a private Notes section only you can see, and a Blackboard section that gets shown on a projector or TV for your class — live, while you’re teaching.
What devices does it work on?
BlackboardView is built for iPad, running iPadOS 18 or later. It is not currently available for iPhone, Mac, Android, or other tablets.
Do I need an internet connection to use it?
No, not for teaching. Your lesson content, notes, and blackboard all work entirely on your iPad without needing an internet connection. The only feature that needs internet is optional: tapping a web link you’ve typed into your notes (see Sharing Links in Your Notes) — that specific feature loads a live web page, which does require Wi-Fi.
Do I need any special equipment?
No special equipment is required to use the app itself. If you want to project your Blackboard content to a screen for your class, you’ll need either an HDMI adapter and cable, or an AirPlay-compatible display like an Apple TV — see Connecting to an External Display. Presentation remotes and Bluetooth camera remotes are optional, not required — see Remotes and Hardware.
Pricing and Purchasing
How much does BlackboardView cost?
BlackboardView is a one-time purchase of $5.99 — there is no subscription and no recurring charge. You pay once through the App Store and the app is yours to use going forward.
Where do I buy it?
BlackboardView is available on the Apple App Store. Search for “BlackboardView” or use the link on our website’s home page.
I already purchased it — how do I get it on a second iPad?
App Store purchases are tied to your Apple ID, not to a single device. Sign in with the same Apple ID on your other iPad and redownload BlackboardView from the App Store at no additional charge.
Privacy and Data
Does BlackboardView collect any of my data or my students’ data?
No. BlackboardView collects no personal data and no student data. There are no user accounts, no analytics, and no advertising. Your lesson content stays on your device. The only network activity the app itself ever makes is loading a web page you personally typed into your notes and tapped — see Sharing Links in Your Notes.
Where can I read the full privacy policy?
The complete privacy policy is available on our website. Look for the “Privacy Policy” link in the footer of any page.
Using the App
Can I write my own lessons, or do I need special software?
You can write lessons in any plain text editor — no special software required. See The Lesson File Format for the full guide and a working example you can copy.
Can my students see my private notes?
No. Your Notes are never shown on the external display/projector — only your Blackboard content is projected, and only when you’ve started a teaching session. See View Modes for more detail.
If I add something during class, is it saved automatically?
No — nothing is saved to your file automatically. When you finish a session, if you added anything (through a hotspot or an ad-hoc blackboard), you’ll be asked whether to save it. See Using Hotspots for the full explanation.
Getting Help
How do I contact support?
The fastest way is the Help button available on this support site — it opens a direct chat with support. You can also email us at [email protected].
Where do I start if I’m brand new to the app?
Start with Getting Started — it walks through opening the app, trying the sample lesson, and writing your first lesson file.
Something isn’t working — where do I look first?
Check our troubleshooting guides:
If your issue isn’t covered, reach out via the Help button or email — we’re happy to help.