For years, Apple’s iPad was seen as a device stuck between two extremes – smartphone and laptop – with limited multitasking capabilities. However, with the recent update to iPadOS 26, the tablet has taken a significant leap forward, now rivaling its macOS counterparts in terms of computing power and flexibility.
In 2010, Steve Jobs first introduced the iPad as a “third category” device that would excel at tasks such as browsing, email, video watching, and gaming. This vision was met with enthusiasm from users, but Apple soon realized that the tablet’s limitations were its greatest strength – and weakness. The lack of multitasking capabilities and file system exposure meant that the iPad struggled to provide a seamless experience for productivity users.
As a result, Apple introduced the iPad Pro, which offered more processing power and features like the Apple Pencil. However, this shift marked a departure from Jobs’ original vision, and the company continued to struggle with finding the right balance between ease of use and advanced computing capabilities.
The latest update to iPadOS 26 has addressed these issues, allowing users to easily switch between multiple apps, use external displays, and enjoy seamless multitasking. The device now boasts a more streamlined user interface, making it feel more like a traditional computer.
While this shift may disappoint those who long for the original iPad’s focused experience, it’s a welcome change for power users who need a versatile computing device. As Steve Jobs once said, “Do we have what it takes to establish a third category of products, an awesome product in between a laptop and smartphone?” The answer, it seems, is yes – but not exactly as he envisioned it.
With iPadOS 26, the iPad has become an Apple spork – a device that combines the best features of both its predecessors. While this evolution may have killed off Jobs’ original vision for the iPad, it’s a testament to Apple’s ability to adapt and improve their products over time.
Source: https://www.wired.com/story/apple-finally-destroyed-steve-jobss-vision-of-the-ipad-good