Apple’s latest iPad Pro launch has shifted focus from the Mac platform to the tablet range, with a large screen, slim design, and portable keyboards promising a computer-like experience. However, tech analyst Mark Gurman believes that Apple should focus on enhancing the unique strengths of the Mac and iPad, rather than trying to merge the two devices. He argues that the Mac should focus on power and usability, while the iPad should excel in portability, gaming, and multimedia capabilities.
Even though Apple is trying to bridge the gap between the iPad and Mac platforms by allowing cross-platform app compatibility, the hardware differences between the two devices can still pose challenges. The Mac lacks a touchscreen, while the iPad does not come with a touchpad or physical keyboard unless additional peripherals are purchased. Despite Apple’s efforts to unify the platforms, a seamless experience is still a long way off, and it may be more beneficial for the company to focus on the strengths of each device individually.
Although Apple has equipped the latest iPad Pro with a powerful M4 chipset ahead of its expected implementation in Mac hardware, reviewers note that the full potential of the chipset is limited by the current iPadOS environment. While iPadOS has improved with features like Stage Manager for multitasking, it still falls short of macOS in terms of productivity and versatility. The closed nature of iPadOS also restricts users to running only Apple-approved apps distributed through the App Store, with Apple taking a thirty percent cut of any revenue generated.
In contrast, macOS offers a more open platform where developers have more freedom to create and distribute apps without Apple’s strict guidelines. Developers can use various payment systems and are not limited to the Mac App Store for distribution. While debates continue over features like touchscreens and trackpads, the key advantage of Mac over iPad is its openness, allowing users to fully utilize the hardware without restrictions. Apple’s control over the iPad platform may hinder its growth, especially in comparison to the flexibility of third-party applications on the Mac platform.
The ongoing discussions around the differences between iPad and Mac platforms highlight the challenges Apple faces in balancing innovation with user needs. While the iPad Pro boasts impressive features and advanced hardware, it is ultimately restricted by the limitations of iPadOS and Apple’s closed ecosystem. With developers and users calling for more openness and flexibility, Apple may need to reconsider its approach to the iPad platform to ensure it can compete effectively with traditional computers like the Mac. As the tech industry continues to evolve, finding the right balance between innovation and usability will be crucial for Apple’s success in the increasingly competitive market.
