Apple is correct in making iPadOS more reminiscent of macOS, but I will never purchase an iPad that operates on macOS.

      Do you own a Mac or an iPad? Many individuals use both devices, but there is an increasing demand for Apple to combine them into a single all-encompassing product. However, I don’t support this idea — in fact, I believe it's a poor choice — and I want to avoid any hypothetical scenario where an iPad operates on macOS.

      In recent years, Apple’s top-tier iPads have become more similar to the Mac. We've seen these devices equipped with Mac-level chips like the M4, acquire software features reminiscent of macOS such as Stage Manager, and enhance compatibility with mice and keyboards.

      This has prompted many to speculate if Apple intends to eventually unify iPadOS and macOS, integrating elements from both operating systems to create a product that functions seamlessly on any Apple tablet or computer.

      This merger isn't on the horizon yet, but according to Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman in his latest Power On newsletter, he believes that iPadOS 19 will undergo significant changes, potentially making the tablet's software closer to macOS.

      While this could undoubtedly provide numerous advantages, we should be cautious about pushing for the full macOS experience on the iPad. There are several reasons why this could be detrimental.

      Main Areas for Improvement

      According to Gurman's report, Apple plans to enhance iPadOS in three key areas: productivity, multitasking, and app window management. Although Gurman doesn’t share many specifics on how these improvements will be executed, the focus on these aspects will please iPad power users who have long sought more effective tools.

      It’s wise for Apple to invest its efforts in these areas. At present, advanced features on the iPad, like Stage Manager, feel lackluster and frustrating. Despite a grand introduction, they have seen minimal enhancements over the years, making them seem underdeveloped and somewhat neglected.

      Stage Manager's current state reflects the overall situation of the iPad. In many respects, the iPad — particularly the high-end versions like the iPad Pro — exists in a gray area between a computer and a tablet. This leaves both iPad enthusiasts and Mac users contemplating an upgrade somewhat dissatisfied since neither group finds sufficient utility.

      Thus, it's encouraging for Apple to focus on the areas that will fulfill the desires of these users. While I’m trying to remain grounded — as Gurman’s report lacks substantial details — it’s still good to see this potential direction.

      The Right Decision

      Hey Apple, in which universe does this icon theming appear even remotely appealing?

      Reports like this might also reassure those who have long advocated for Apple to merge iPadOS and macOS into one cohesive operating system. After all, if the two systems continue to converge, might it not eventually be easier for Apple to consolidate them?

      However, I must disagree with that notion; I firmly believe that Apple should maintain the distinction between the iPad and the Mac. Combining these two would likely create more complications than it would resolve.

      One reason is that iPadOS and macOS have been developed for fundamentally different working styles: iPad usage centers on touch interfaces, while the Mac is primarily navigated using a keyboard and mouse or trackpad. Although more individuals are using an iPad with the same peripherals as a Mac, I suspect this is still a minority among Apple tablet users.

      This indicates that, despite some overlap between iPadOS and macOS, the differences are significant enough to justify maintaining two distinct operating systems.

      Furthermore, the risks associated with merging the two systems are substantial. Apple would face numerous compromises and likely end up losing the unique advantages of both systems — a concern that Apple has acknowledged multiple times. In this case, a one-size-fits-all solution would be ineffective for everyone.

      Like my colleague Nadeem Sarwar, I’m looking forward to discovering what enhancements iPadOS 19 will introduce. Many iPad features for power users still have a long way to go before they reach their full potential, and I hope Apple’s forthcoming adjustments will help bridge that gap.

      But let’s not get overly excited — Gurman states that Apple isn't merging iPadOS and macOS at this time, and I don't foresee it occurring anytime soon either. Ultimately, that seems to be the wisest choice.