Ipados
iPadOS
iPadOS is a mobile operating system developed by Apple Inc. specifically for its line of iPad tablet computers. Initially, iPads ran on iOS, which is also used by the iPhone. However, starting in 2019, Apple distinguished the iPad's operating system by renaming it iPadOS to better reflect its unique capabilities and the evolving nature of the platform. This change was announced during the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC).
Features and Development
iPadOS shares a common foundation with iOS, such as the App Store, but it also includes numerous features tailored specifically for tablet use. Features such as multitasking with Split View and Slide Over, a customizable Home Screen with widgets, and a robust Files app are some of the highlights that set iPadOS apart from its iOS counterpart.
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iPadOS 13: The first version to be branded as iPadOS, it introduced multitasking improvements, a redesigned Home Screen with Today View widgets, and enhanced Apple Pencil integration.
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iPadOS 14: Announced at WWDC 2020, this version featured compact designs for search, Siri, and calls, improved app designs, handwriting recognition, better Augmented Reality features, enhanced privacy protections, and app widgets.
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iPadOS 15: At WWDC 2021, widgets on the Home Screen and the App Library were introduced, bringing parity with features available on iOS. It also focused on privacy enhancements, including Safari's IP Address blocking.
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iPadOS 16: Brought improvements such as the introduction of a new multitasking feature called Stage Manager and a focus on professional applications.
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iPadOS 17: Announced at WWDC 2023, this version introduced lock screen widgets, building on the widget feature that began with iOS 16.
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iPadOS 18: Part of the major release cycle in 2024, this version continued to enhance user experience with further integration of macOS design elements, showcasing Apple's vision for a unified ecosystem across their devices.
Influence and Impact
The creation of iPadOS has allowed iPads to evolve from simple consumption devices into powerful tools for productivity and creativity. This transformation has been driven by the inclusion of desktop-class applications and features that support complex workflows, such as Adobe Creative Cloud applications and Microsoft Office.
The distinction of iPadOS has also clarified Apple's positioning of the iPad as a device that sits between the MacBook and the iPhone, with its own unique features and capabilities that leverage the iPad's larger touch interface.