Multitasking in iOS
Multitasking in iOS refers to the ability of iPhone and iPad devices to manage and run multiple applications simultaneously. This feature has evolved significantly since its introduction, adapting to the advancements in hardware and user demands.
Historical Evolution of Multitasking in iOS
iOS 4
The journey of multitasking in iOS began with iOS 4, which was a significant update that introduced multitasking capabilities to Apple devices. This iteration replaced the existing home button shortcuts feature and allowed applications to perform specific background tasks. However, full multitasking was not available due to hardware constraints and the need to preserve battery life. Apps were able to function in the background with limitations through mechanisms such as background audio, VoIP, and location updates.
iOS 5 and Gestures
iOS 5 expanded on multitasking by introducing gestures on the iPad, allowing users to effortlessly switch between apps using a swipe of their fingers. This version also integrated deep connections with Twitter, enhancing multitasking by allowing users to tweet directly from within various apps.
iOS 7 to iOS 8
With iOS 7, the multitasking interface was revamped, providing a more visually intuitive experience. The introduction of a card-based interface for app switching allowed users to see a preview of open apps. iOS 8 further refined this by introducing a multitasking screen that showed recently contacted and favorited contacts, making it more convenient for users to multitask by accessing communications directly from the multitask view.
iOS 9 and iPad Multitasking
iOS 9 marked a pivotal moment in the history of iOS multitasking, especially for iPads. It introduced multiple forms of multitasking, such as Slide Over, Split View, and Picture in Picture. These features allowed users to interact with a second app without leaving the first one, view two apps side-by-side, and watch videos in a resizable floating window, respectively.
iOS 11
iOS 11 brought significant praise for iPad multitasking, offering more dynamic and flexible ways to manage applications. The ability to drag multiple apps at once and the more robust dock system were seen as near-revelatory, enhancing productivity on iPad devices.
iOS 14
iOS 14 extended multitasking capabilities to iPhones by introducing Picture in Picture mode. This feature allowed users to continue watching videos or make FaceTime calls while using other apps, further enhancing the multitasking experience on smaller screens.
Technical Implementation
The implementation of multitasking in iOS employs a strategic approach to balance performance and power consumption. Initially, multitasking was limited to preserve battery life and ensure system stability. Over time, as the hardware evolved, Apple was able to introduce more sophisticated multitasking features. The underlying multitasking kernel in iOS supports cooperative multitasking, where apps are responsible for yielding control to ensure smooth multitasking transitions.