As Apple prepares to unveil iPadOS 19 at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June 2025, anticipation builds around potential enhancements that could align the iPad experience more closely with that of macOS. Recent reports suggest that Apple aims to make the iPad’s operating system more like macOS, sparking discussions about specific features that could bridge the functional divide between the two platforms.
Clamshell Mode: A Step Towards Desktop Parity
One of the most requested features is the introduction of Clamshell mode. This functionality allows users to connect their iPads to external monitors while keeping the device’s screen off, similar to how MacBooks operate when connected to displays with the lid closed. Currently, iPad users must keep their device’s screen active to maintain functionality when connected to an external display. Implementing Clamshell mode would enhance the iPad’s versatility, especially for users seeking a desktop-like experience.
Enhanced External Display Support
Improving external monitor support is another critical area for iPadOS 19. Users have expressed the need for more interface scaling options, akin to those available on macOS. This would allow for a more customized and comfortable viewing experience when using larger screens. Additionally, addressing audio output issues is essential. Currently, when an iPad is connected to an external display without built-in speakers, users cannot route audio through the iPad’s internal speakers. Providing flexible audio output options would resolve this limitation and improve the overall user experience.
Dock Customization: Personalizing the User Interface
The ability to resize the Dock is a seemingly minor yet impactful feature that could enhance user satisfaction. On macOS, users can adjust the Dock’s size to their preference, regardless of the number of applications it contains. In contrast, iPadOS currently adjusts the Dock size based on the number of apps, which can lead to inconsistencies in appearance. Allowing users to manually resize the Dock would offer a more personalized and consistent interface.
Advancements in Multitasking and File Management
Multitasking capabilities on the iPad have evolved over the years, but there is still room for improvement. Introducing a redesigned app switcher, inspired by the iPad’s multitasking interface, could streamline the process of navigating between multiple applications. This would enable users to view and switch between more apps simultaneously, enhancing workflow efficiency. Additionally, refining the Files app to offer functionalities closer to those found in macOS would significantly benefit users who rely on their iPads for productivity tasks.
Support for Multiple User Accounts
Implementing support for multiple user accounts is another feature that could make iPadOS more akin to macOS. This would be particularly beneficial for families or shared devices, allowing each user to have a personalized experience with their own settings and data. Such a feature would enhance the iPad’s versatility and appeal to a broader audience.
Integration of Advanced AI Features
With the advent of Apple Intelligence, integrating advanced AI features into iPadOS 19 could revolutionize the user experience. Enhancements to Siri, enabling more conversational interactions and handling complex requests, would position the iPad as a more intelligent and responsive device. Additionally, incorporating Visual Intelligence, which utilizes the device’s camera to analyze and identify objects, could open new avenues for productivity and accessibility.
Conclusion
As iPadOS 19 approaches, the potential for these enhancements to bridge the gap between iPad and Mac functionality is significant. By introducing features such as Clamshell mode, improved external display support, customizable Dock, advanced multitasking, multiple user accounts, and AI integration, Apple can elevate the iPad experience to new heights. These changes would not only satisfy current user demands but also attract a wider audience seeking a versatile and powerful computing device.
