The latest iteration of Apple’s iPad operating system, iPadOS 17, is set to launch this fall, and it brings with it a host of changes that could make the iPad a viable replacement for the Mac for many users. The most significant of these changes is the overhaul of the Stage Manager feature, which was first introduced in iPadOS 16.
Stage Manager: A Game Changer for Multitasking
Stage Manager, a software feature that aims to make the iPad much more powerful by allowing users to multitask more effectively, was initially met with criticism due to its rough implementation and lack of compatibility with several iPad models. However, Apple has since made iterative improvements, and with iPadOS 17, the feature is set to become more robust and user-friendly.
In the new update, windows can move much more freely, making it easier to drag and move them around the space. This change makes the user experience feel more fluid and natural. Additionally, there are fewer restrictions on the sizes of windows. Previously, windows would often get stuck in an iPhone-like shape on the iPad, but now they can be resized to any shape needed, providing a more flexible and intuitive user experience.
Another significant addition to Stage Manager is the ability to easily open new windows inside of a stage by shift-clicking on an icon. This feature bridges the gap between iPadOS and macOS, making the iPad a more viable option for users who frequently multitask.
Room for Improvement
Despite the improvements, there are still areas where iPadOS 17 could improve. For instance, certain features in iPadOS still take over the full screen, disrupting the user’s workflow. Additionally, there is a limit on how many stages and open things you can have on your iPad, as well as on an external monitor. While this limit may be acceptable on the iPad’s smaller display, it becomes a hindrance when using a larger external monitor.
Another area of potential improvement is the ability to move windows outside the edge of the display. On a Mac, users can move windows off the edge of the display, but this is not currently possible on iPadOS. Finally, the lack of a clamshell mode for the iPad is a missed opportunity. This mode would allow users to close their iPad and use it with an external monitor, a feature that is currently available on Macs.
Other Notable Features
Beyond the improvements to Stage Manager, iPadOS 17 introduces several other features that enhance the user experience. For example, users can now use external microphones and webcams with their iPads. This is a significant development, especially for users who use their iPads for video conferencing or content creation.
Apple is also adding interactive widgets to the home screen, allowing users to interact with various features without having to open applications. Furthermore, the lock screen has been enhanced with a variety of new widget options and live activities.
Conclusion
With the upcoming release of iPadOS 17, Apple is making strides towards making the iPad a viable replacement for the Mac. The improvements to Stage Manager, in particular, make the iPad a more powerful tool for multitasking. While there are still areas for improvement, the iPad is becoming more capable than ever before, moving beyond casual use to become a tool for getting work done. As Apple continues to integrate Stage Manager better into iPadOS, the gap between the iPad and the Mac continues to close.
