Looking forward to iPadOS

Following Apple's WWDC 19 keynote I am genuinely excited about the upcoming release of iPadOS this September.

For a long time the iPad has sat in an awkward middle ground — too capable to be dismissed as a simple media device, but too restricted to fully replace a laptop for serious work. iPadOS looks like it could finally tip the balance.

What's catching my attention

A proper home screen

The ability to pin widgets to the home screen and fit more apps onto it sounds small, but it makes the iPad feel much more like a personal productivity tool rather than a giant iPhone.

Improved file management

The Files app improvements — including support for external drives and SD cards — are huge. This is something power users have been asking for since the Files app launched.

Desktop-class browsing in Safari

Full desktop websites in Safari, with download manager and upload support. This alone removes one of my biggest frustrations with using the iPad for real work.

Split View and Slide Over improvements

Being able to open multiple instances of the same app in Split View is a game changer for things like comparing documents or drafting while referencing notes.

My take

iPadOS signals that Apple is serious about the iPad as a productivity platform. I think it will be fantastic for iPad users — and it may finally give me the confidence to use the iPad as my primary device for more of my day-to-day work.

Roll on September.