Apple’s Next iPad Update Could Function Like Macs with Apple’s Upcoming iPadOS Overhaul: Reports
Apple will likely showcase iPadOS 19 at the upcoming WWDC 2025. The new update might finally bridge the gap between iPads and Macs with a major UI redesign. Like iOS 19, which is speculated to undergo a significant makeover, iPadOS 19 is also expected to gain a few platform-specific features to enhance productivity.

For years, a common sentiment among iPad users, particularly professionals, has been that the software does not fully leverage the powerful hardware capabilities of the devices, especially the iPad Pro line now featuring the M4 chip (and anticipated M5). While iPads have excelled as versatile tablets, their software has traditionally maintained a distinction from macOS, limiting their potential as true laptop replacements.
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Gurman suggests that the update will introduce improvements to app window management, allowing for more flexible and efficient multitasking. This could involve enhancements to the existing Stage Manager feature or new ways to handle multiple apps simultaneously, bringing it closer to the windowing system found on macOS. The focus on productivity also hints at potential refinements to file management, external display support, and overall workflow efficiency.
It's crucial to note that Apple is not expected to merge iPadOS and macOS entirely. The company has consistently maintained that each operating system serves a distinct purpose. Instead, the overhaul aims to enhance the iPad's capabilities within its own paradigm, making it a more compelling option for users seeking a blend of tablet versatility and near-laptop functionality.
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This potential shift in iPadOS strategy aligns with the increasing power of iPad hardware. With the latest iPad Pro models boasting the same silicon found in MacBooks, the software has become the primary differentiator in terms of functionality. By enhancing iPadOS to better utilise this power, Apple could unlock the full potential of its tablets and cater to users who desire a more robust and productive mobile computing experience.
The exact details of the iPadOS 19 overhaul remain under wraps. In June, more information will be revealed at Apple's annual Worldwide Developers Conference.