The iPad is about to get more Mac-like – here’s one way it could happen

The latest iPadOS 19 scuttlebutt suggests new features will be introduced to make Apple’s tablet software more macOS-like to boost its productivity nous.

According to a source speaking to the reporter Majin Bu, Apple is planning to bring a Mac-style menu bar to the best iPad models when it detects the presence of a Magic Keyboard accessory.

The Menu bar is a staple of Mac computing, offering access to the traditional per-app File, Edit, Format, View and other menus. It also contains the Apple logo menu and key indicators of connectivity.

This would be helpful for iPad users perhaps looking to use productivity apps as mobile versions don’t tend to have those easily accessible menus for app settings and functionality, and require a deeper dive for everything beyond quick settings.

“One of the most exciting changes will benefit those using the iPad with a Magic Keyboard. When connected, the interface will adapt to show a menu bar at the top, just like on macOS, turning the iPad into a much more laptop-like experience,” Bu writes.

Furthermore, Bu’s source said Apple is planning to boost the Stage Manager technology with a second-generation update to boost productivity.

He added: “Another key update is Stage Manager 2.0, an enhanced multitasking mode that activates automatically when the keyboard is attached. It will make managing apps and windows smoother and more productive than ever.”

Earlier today we brought word of his report suggesting the iPhone would also get a version of Stage Manager in iOS 19 that allowed more flexibility when connecting to external displays via USB-C cables.

While we’re taking this rumour with a pinch of salt, well-connected Apple reporters have been predicting a move in this direction. Earlier this month, in his Power On newsletter, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman said iPadOS 19 will “focus on productivity, multitasking and app window management — with an eye on the device operating more like a Mac.”

Opinion

Anything that makes the iPad more Mac-like is fine by me. It has never quite lived up to its potential as a post PC device.

Whenever I think about replacing my MacBook Air with an iPad Pro and Magic Keyboard I get cold feet about missing this functionality or that, or missing this quirk that dramatically undermines my workflow.

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