iPad could get macOS-like features in the future, hints at Apple patent

Apple’s iPad is one of the most popular product lines on the market right now. While competitors such as Samsung are struggling to match the level achieved by the iPad by promoting their devices as the ultimate multimedia device, Apple is actively promoting the iPad as a laptop replacement. While the device does a good job of doing most of the work, iPadOS has always been cited by critics as one of the “flaws”in an otherwise powerful tablet. So it looks like Apple is listening to them. The Cupertino firm, according to a new patent found on Apple’s Patently website, appears to be working on an iPad-like device that will have an interface similar to that of macOS.

User experience changes with keyboard detection

According to the website, this ability to make the iPad work with a macOS-like user interface will take place when the device is connected to an external keyboard. The patent clearly describes the basic device as a keyboard consisting of keys and a trackpad. It can connect to a “computing device”to provide a macOS-like experience that also supports the Apple Pencil accessory.

The patent clearly states that the computing device is an iPad-like tablet. This is because the images show how the device can work offline. It’s similar to what we see now with the iPad and Apple’s Magic Keyboard.

An alternative to a touch MacBook?

However, it may not be an update to the iPad device. Instead, Apple could just be working on a detachable 2-in-1 MacBook, which OEMs like Lenovo, HP, Dell, and others are already doing. It’s worth noting that Apple has already said it’s not going to release a Mac with a touchscreen. So a possible combination of iPad and MacBook could be the answer.

However, this patent is also in line with what Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reported in his 17th issue of the Power On newsletter. He predicted that the iPad could have three modes in the future. While the former will be touch screen mode, the latter may be an adapted version of the Apple Pencil. The third mode could be the “Pro”mode, which is activated when an external keyboard is connected to it. The patent we see above could be the “Pro”mode.

We may also see some hints in iPadOS 16, which will be introduced alongside iOS 16 and new versions of tvOS, macOS and watchOS next month during WWDC.