Stop macOS VNC server from rendering remote mouse pointer

remote desktopscreen-sharing

Currently running macOS 11.2.3, and noticed that the system VNC server (enabled in System Preference -> Screen Sharing) always includes the mouse pointer in the video feed sent to the client, causing a shadowed mouse pointer on the client side (As VNC viewers would also render the mouse pointer locally to make a smooth motion). And the behavior is the same no matter if I use the Screen Sharing as the client on another Mac, or some third party VNC viewers on PC. While the Vine VNC Server does not have this issue and works perfectly.

So I wonder if there is a way to stop the system default VNC server from rendering the cursor of the remote machine. I have heard the rumors that the $80 Apple Remote Desktop can somehow configure this, but I haven't yet made the investment. Can someone confirm?

Best Answer

It depends on where you take the screenshot.

Even with Apple Remote Desktop if you invoke the screenshot on the local Mac it will include the cursor on the remote instance - which has no clue a screenshot is being taken.
If you invoke it on the remote instance the cursor will hide.

If the key commands are the same for both local & remote, then the local instance will launch in preference to the remote.