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I couldn't get the newer version to work only by USB. I have to Air Display even when iPad is connected to USB. AirDisplay is laggy, but I have a 2013 rMBP and iPads Air (original) and Mini (original), and none of them ran Duet with a decent performance. I guess it has to do with AirDisplay. I'd like using through USB only.
 
After updating to macOS 10.14.2 it doesn't need Airplay anymore, so it started working much much smoother than before and can again use full iPad screen. About 10 minutes ago I have updated to the latest iPad app and it runs beautiful, it's almost as smooth as real monitor (that's on iPad mini retina and 2017 iMac 27").

Now I'm tempted again to get a bigger iPad :)
 
After updating to macOS 10.14.2 it doesn't need Airplay anymore, so it started working much much smoother than before and can again use full iPad screen. About 10 minutes ago I have updated to the latest iPad app and it runs beautiful, it's almost as smooth as real monitor (that's on iPad mini retina and 2017 iMac 27").

Now I'm tempted again to get a bigger iPad :)

Yes, I was surprised. It's like it's gone from total junk, to a near perfect solution with a single update.

All apps should suffer this fate

Then again, knowing Apple, they will manage to screw it up again. Count on it. :D
 
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