Elevating iPadOS: 6 Essential Features for 2022
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Chapter 1: The Evolution of iPad
The iPad has persistently hovered near its potential, exploring endless opportunities yet falling short of becoming a fully-fledged computing device. Initially, it mimicked an oversized iPhone, but it has gradually transformed into a viable alternative to laptops for many users globally. Nevertheless, for those who demand more from their devices, iPad software still leaves much to be desired. Below are six pivotal enhancements that would significantly elevate iPadOS 16 in 2022.
Section 1.1: Windowed Applications
When the iPad debuted in 2010, it was designed to operate one app at a time, akin to the iPhone. However, with advancements like split-screen capabilities and picture-in-picture mode, today’s iPads cry out for windowed app functionality.
Imagine the capability to run two, three, or even more apps simultaneously, with each window able to be resized and repositioned to suit various tasks. This functionality would transform the iPad into a formidable multitasking tool.
One intriguing clue about this potential was hinted at in last year’s iPadOS 15 update, which introduced a Quick Note feature that allows users to overlay a note on any app. If Apple were to expand this concept across the system, it could pave the way for a more interactive app experience.
Section 1.2: Enhanced External Monitor Compatibility
As the iPad inches closer to being an equivalent to the Mac, it stands to benefit from improved external monitor capabilities. Currently, users can only mirror their iPad screen to one monitor, which restricts the viewing experience due to aspect ratio limitations, often resulting in unattractive black bars.
To unlock the iPad's full productivity potential, it should support multiple external monitors, each with their own desktops and the ability to drag and drop files seamlessly. Moreover, iPadOS 16 should automatically detect monitor aspect ratios and allow users to adjust settings as necessary, potentially even including multitouch support for compatible displays.
Chapter 2: The Need for Interactive Widgets
The first video, "My iPadOS 18 Feature Wishlist," explores the desired enhancements for iPadOS, including interactive widgets that would enhance user experience.
Today's iPad widgets are largely static, providing information but requiring users to open the corresponding app for any interaction. A next-gen widget could enable users to perform actions directly, such as checking off tasks in Reminders, responding to emails, or viewing event details in the Calendar widget—all without leaving the home screen.
Section 2.1: The Demand for Pro Apps
Apple brands a quarter of its iPad lineup as "Pro," yet it has not released any of its professional applications on the iPad. With the integration of M-series chips—similar to those in Macs—it's time for Apple to adapt its most demanding applications for the iPad.
For instance, Final Cut Pro could serve as an excellent alternative to Adobe Premiere Pro, offering advanced video editing tools that outshine iMovie. Similarly, Logic Pro could provide musicians with extensive features absent in GarageBand, enhancing the creative process.
Furthermore, the addition of full Xcode support would be a game-changer for developers, allowing them to create robust applications directly on the iPad.
Section 2.2: The Absence of Key Apple Apps
Despite the close ties between iPadOS and iOS, several Apple applications designed for the iPhone remain unavailable on the iPad. For example, the iPad still lacks native calculator and weather applications, which has become somewhat of a running joke in tech circles.
Additionally, the Health app from iPhone would benefit from the larger iPad display, enabling more detailed health insights through enhanced visualizations. Integrating Apple Wallet into the iPad's app lineup would also be beneficial, allowing users to access their financial information on a larger screen.
Section 2.3: A Longshot Desire for Desktop Mode
This idea might seem far-fetched, but the possibility of a desktop mode for the iPad is worth contemplating. Given that iPads are powered by the same M-series chips as Macs, they possess the potential for greater functionality than currently realized.
Imagine a scenario where connecting an iPad to an external monitor transforms it into a device running macOS, complete with full application support and Finder capabilities. This dual functionality would elevate the iPad's role as a versatile tool for both casual users and professionals alike.
The second video, "iOS 16 Wishlist - Features & Changes We Hope to See," discusses anticipated enhancements for the iOS platform, some of which could also benefit iPadOS users.