Since Apple launched the tablet iPad, its software performance has always lagged behind the hardware, iPadOS even difficult to play the full potential of the M1 chip. To this end, Apple senior reporter Mark Gurman suggested that Apple should launch a Pro mode for the iPad to support more powerful functions.
When Apple released the original iPad in 2010, the device lacked multitasking, app folders, background audio playback, and a unified email inbox. While those omissions were quickly corrected, and today’s iPad has nearly everything one would expect from a computer, it does reflect the device’s persistent software problems.
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The current iPad Pro hardware performance is still far ahead of iPadOS. The device now features the M1 chip, the same processor that powers the 13-inch MacBook Pro or 24-inch iMac. It’s far more powerful than what you need to run iPadOS, which is still basically a scaled-up and tweaked version of iOS.
So why is it so important to address this iPad hardware-software imbalance? Software flaws make it harder for Apple to develop an iPad that appeals to all consumers.
There are many professional users who want to get the most out of their iPad. They want to develop apps, manipulate powerful spreadsheets, or run Slack, Twitter, Messages, 35 Safari tabs, Photoshop, and more at the same time. They want the device to replace their laptops.
But other users might just want to browse Facebook, send the occasional email, binge-watch Netflix and play games. They also want iPads to replace the way they use laptops. This means that the device needs to be powerful enough to satisfy the 20% of professional users, yet simple enough to satisfy the other 80%. For the most part, Apple does this primarily through iPad hardware, not software.
Today, Apple has four flagship iPads, including the $329 entry-level iPad, iPad mini, iPad Air, and iPad Pro. They all have different features like the iPad Pro has more storage, a ProMotion screen, and a better camera. The iPad mini has a small screen that fits easily in your pocket.
But all of those iPads run the same version of the operating system iPadOS, as well as the same third-party apps and the same Apple software. However, to keep the iPad simple while making it more useful for professional users, Apple needed a fresh approach.
Gurman suggested that the iPad Pro should probably have three modes :
1) The standard touch priority mode, which supports the common home screen, has been introduced into iPadOS;
2) When the user connects the Apple Pencil and tries to optimize the icons, controls, and UI elements, the new options mode starts;
3) When the iPad is connected to a keyboard and touchpad (such as Apple’s own Magic Keyboard or an external display), the new “Pro” mode kicks in.
But the iPad Pro has its downsides: macOS is more advanced than iPadOS, and Gurman doesn’t think Apple will eventually port macOS to the iPad Pro, but creating a new Pro model is a good compromise. So, what functions should this mode have?
1) Similar to the multitasking function of Mac, or support running multiple windows at the same time;
2) A more dynamic Dock, where users can lock files and minimize apps, and should also be able to press and hold icons for a few seconds to quickly browse information;
3) Better desktop design that allows users to place folders, weblinks, and more next to the app. It would be better to see more dynamic widgets that allow people to use them as mini-apps rather than just info screens;
4) Mini apps so users can use calculators, music apps, Apple TV remote, and sticky notes without having to open new apps and disrupt workflow.
These features may be overly complicated for the vast majority of users looking to escape the complexity of a Mac or PC, but they are essential features for many users.
Gurman thinks the next big iPad upgrade could be a bigger display, but he doesn’t see how Apple could make such a leap without making sure the hardware and software are perfectly matched.
The good news is that Apple’s 2022 Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) is less than two months away, and the company is expected to unveil a new app switcher interface built for the iPad.
