Apple enhances iPad multitasking with iPadOS 19 overhaul

In a significant move towards boosting productivity and user experience, Apple is set to unveil iPadOS 19 at the Worldwide Developers Conference on June 9, 2025. This overhaul will mark the first major changes to iPad multitasking since the release of iPadOS 16 in 2022, aiming to bridge the functionality of the iPad's operating system closer to that of macOS. Over the years, there have been persistent complaints regarding the state of iPad multitasking, particularly from power users demanding a more capable software environment to match the robust hardware capabilities of newer iPad models. The anticipated adjustments in iPadOS 19 are expected to enhance app window management and multitasking features, making the tablet notably more flexible and efficient than its previous iterations. Mark Gurman from Bloomberg has indicated that these changes reflect a broader trend of integrating Mac-like functionalities across Apple's ecosystem, addressing long-held criticisms that the iPad's operating system has lagged behind its hardware. Despite these improvements, it's important to note that users will not have the option to run macOS on iPads, maintaining a clear distinction between the two operating systems even as they evolve. Apple's commitment to improving iPadOS is reflected in the development of its existing features, particularly the controversial Stage Manager, introduced in iPadOS 16—intended as Apple’s first major attempt at modernizing multitasking on iPads. However, Stage Manager’s launch was marred by bugs and strict hardware requirements, which left many users frustrated. This past experience highlights the challenges Apple faces in delivering an effective multitasking user experience while maintaining a divide between iPad and Mac functionalities. Overall, iPadOS 19 ushers in a promising chapter for iPad enthusiasts, with several key updates that could finally empower the devices to reach their full potential as productivity tools in a post-PC world. This imminent release represents not merely an update, but a critical evolution aiming to address the dissatisfaction that has been previously expressed by users about iPads not living up to their hardware capabilities. As the industry awaits the unveiling, excitement builds around how effectively Apple will execute these changes.