Introduction to the Debate
Do you use a Mac or an iPad? Huge numbers of people use both, yet there are growing calls for Apple to merge the two devices into some kind of all-in-one super product. However, I strongly believe that this would be a terrible idea, and I’m determined to steer clear of any hypothetical iPad that runs macOS.
The Convergence of iPad and Mac
Over the past few years, Apple’s best iPads have grown closer to the Mac. We’ve seen the devices get outfitted with Mac-grade chips like the M4, gain macOS-like software features such as Stage Manager, and gain increased compatibility with mice and keyboards. This has led a lot of people to wonder whether Apple plans to one day merge iPadOS and macOS, taking parts from each operating system and building something that can work on any Apple tablet or computer.
The Rumored iPadOS 19 Overhaul
According to Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman, iPadOS 19 will be a major overhaul that will "make the tablet’s software more like macOS." While this should bring a whole host of benefits, I think we should be careful not to go further and demand that Apple brings the full-fat version of macOS to the iPad. Ultimately, there are a few reasons why this could be a bad idea.
Key Areas for Improvement
Gurman’s report claims that Apple plans to improve iPadOS in three main areas: "productivity, multitasking, and app window management." Apple is right to be focusing its efforts here. Currently, more advanced iPad features like Stage Manager are half-hearted and frustrating. They were introduced with much fanfare but have received few upgrades and improvements over the years, leaving them feeling stunted and half-forgotten.
The State of the iPad
Really, I think that the state of Stage Manager is emblematic of the iPad as a whole. In some ways, the iPad — particularly high-end variants like the iPad Pro — currently sits somewhere between a computer and tablet. There’s not really enough for either iPad power users or Mac users who are thinking of ditching their laptops, leaving both groups unsatisfied. So, for Apple to be pouring attention on the areas that will give these users what they want is encouraging.
The Case Against Merging iPadOS and macOS
Reports like this will probably also give succor to those people who have long called for Apple to merge iPadOS and macOS into a single operating system. However, I strongly feel that Apple must keep the iPad and the Mac distinct. Combining them together will only create more problems than it will solve. One reason is that iPadOS and macOS are designed for two different ways of working: the iPad focuses on touch while the Mac is mainly operated through a keyboard and mouse or trackpad.
The Risks of Merging the Two Systems
The risks of merging the two systems are too great. Apple would have to make too many compromises and would end up with none of the distinct strengths of either system — a concern that Apple itself has voiced on multiple occasions. In this particular case, one size fits all doesn’t work for anyone. As well as that, the majority of iPad users still operate their devices using touch, and merging the two systems would likely lead to a watered-down experience for both iPad and Mac users.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while I’m looking forward to seeing what the upgrades to iPadOS 19 will entail, I strongly believe that Apple should keep the iPad and the Mac distinct. The company is right to focus on improving the areas that will give power users what they want, but merging the two systems would be a mistake. With iPadOS 19 on the horizon, it will be exciting to see how Apple chooses to evolve the iPad, but I’m hoping that it will remain a unique and separate entity from the Mac.
