Apple gives iPad its own OS
One of the biggest reveals from Apple’s June WWDC was iPadOS. Apple finally gave the iPad its own operating system, adding features that push the tablet into territory traditionally reserved for laptops.
The iPad has long been unrivaled as an entertainment device. A few years ago Apple doubled down on productivity with the iPad Pro lineup, packing performance into a tablet that can compete with similarly priced laptops.
But iOS’s emphasis on simplicity and security created real limitations for power users. iPadOS aims to change that.
What iPadOS brings
iPadOS expands what the iPad can do. Multitasking is improved, external storage is finally supported, and the system better leverages the iPad’s larger display.
On the surface there are cosmetic updates, including a Dark Mode and an overhauled home screen. Under the hood, there are a number of practical additions aimed at making the iPad more capable for work.
Public beta available
The iPadOS public beta was released at the end of June, and Muropaketti tested it early on an iPad Pro.
The public beta is available to anyone willing to install beta software at their own risk, provided their device is compatible. In practice iPadOS runs on all iPad Pro models, iPad mini 5, iPad Air, and the 2018 iPad and newer tablets.
