Here’s something you already knew: Apple is trying to make the iPad be a little bit more like a laptop.
Yes, Apple has been adding various features to its tablets (especially the iPad Pro line) that make them more useful as actual work machines, but they’re still very far from being a replacement for the MacBook.
According to a new report by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, however, Apple is planning a new update that might change this. The update, which will come with the new iPadOS 16 – likely introduced next Monday at Apple’s WWDC – will completely overhaul the iPad’s multitasking interface.
This should make it easier to see what apps are open, as well as switch between tasks, the report claim. Users will also be able to resize app windows, and there should be new ways for users to handle multiple apps at once (there are no further details on that).
The way iPads currently handle multitasking leaves a lot to be desired. Once an app is open, you can tap on the three dots on top of the screen to split the screen in two and add a second app. Alternatively (or additionally), you can send an app into a floating window that can be moved to the left or to the right. It’s alright, but it’s a far cry from what you can do on a laptop, and Bloomberg says the new changes to the interface will bring some improvements here.
As far as the iPhone goes, Gurman reported earlier this week that the iPhone might get an improved lock screen with widget-like capabilities, and – possibly – an always-on display.
We’ll know more about Apple’s plans come Monday, June 6, when the WWDC conference kicks off at 1 PM ET/10 AM PT.
