# Are Apple’s iPad Power Users Feeling Disappointed?
Written on
It’s been a recurring theme in discussions about Apple’s iPad: many users who consider themselves power users feel that their expectations are not being met. Two years ago, prior to the unveiling of iPadOS 16, I noted that these users had unrealistic hopes for the iPad, often lamenting that their desire for a MacBook-like experience was misleading their assessments of the iPad's performance.
iPad Power Users Are Leaving
Does the M1 chip in the iPad Air Signal Apple’s Abandonment of iPadOS?
After the announcement of iPadOS 16, power users were quick to praise the update, even though many of their hopes were dashed. The initial excitement faded once they encountered the problematic Stage Manager feature, which was plagued with bugs and limitations, including issues with window resizing. The subsequent backlash stemmed from Apple’s decision to limit Stage Manager to M1-equipped iPads, leaving many users feeling excluded.
Is iPadOS 16 the Solution iPad Power Users Needed?
Or has it become a breaking point?
During the beta testing phase, Apple did address some of the issues with Stage Manager, but many of the initial restrictions persisted in the final version. While Stage Manager became available for all recent iPad Pro models, only the M1 devices could effectively utilize it with an external monitor. This compromise did alleviate some frustration, yet it fell short of the transformative productivity tool many had envisioned.
Fast forward a year, and while numerous iPad power users still cherish their devices, they have shifted their more demanding tasks to a Mac, relegating the iPad to a secondary role. This hybrid setup seems to be ideal for many, regardless of whether they still identify as power users. For those who appreciate technology, the synergy between iPads and Macs can be highly beneficial.
I find myself outside of these camps. The tendency to categorize users by their device preference seems counterproductive and trivial. If your identity is tied to a particular device that no longer meets your needs, it’s time to reassess. Be open about your feelings and desires instead of clinging to outdated labels.
Currently, it appears that some in the iPad power user community feel neglected compared to Mac users. In an effort to rationalize their departure from an iPad-centric identity, they label the iPad as subpar. The notion that Apple disregards iPad users or is heading in the wrong direction seems absurd to me.
What’s to say you know Apple’s future plans? Why should your individual requirements dictate whether a platform is succeeding or failing? Such reasoning is misguided, and I haven't even begun to address the actual debates surrounding these opinions.
Stage Manager
My experience with Stage Manager is neutral; I neither love it nor hate it. I see value in some of its features, yet I also recall when Apple restricted iPads to a single app at a time, which many users found beneficial for focus and productivity.
When iOS 9 launched in 2015, five years post-iPad's debut, Apple introduced the split-screen capability, allowing two apps to run simultaneously. This coincided with the launch of the first iPad Pro, a significant moment for the device line.
Despite the introduction of larger iPads, Apple ensured that split-screen functionality was available across all iPads compatible with iOS 9, even the iPad Mini. Historically, when Apple refers to a product as "Pro," it often pertains to the quality of materials and specifications rather than additional features. This explains the frustration surrounding the M1 iPads receiving Stage Manager exclusively in iPadOS 16.
The Struggles of Stage Manager
Stage Manager has faced high expectations and is seen as failing to meet even basic functionalities.
I transitioned to using an iPad Pro 9.7-inch exclusively after the split-screen feature had been introduced. I adapted to using the iPad in a way that suited me, enjoying the single-app mode for its focus. When I needed to juggle two tasks, having the ability to open another window was beneficial, but I never criticized the iPad for not mirroring the Mac experience.
If I craved the exact functionality of a Mac, I would simply return to one. I’ve done so multiple times. My identity didn’t hinge on being either an iPad or a Mac user; I considered myself an Apple enthusiast. I wanted the flexibility to switch platforms without feeling disloyal, nor did I need to undermine one platform to justify my choice of another.
While I may not be a tech influencer or a well-known writer, I advocate for honesty about your platform preferences. You shouldn’t have to tarnish your reputation to validate your current choices. Regardless of the platform you transitioned from, the reasons that initially attracted you to it still hold value. Just because new, more pressing concerns arise doesn’t erase your previous appreciation.
In essence, Stage Manager is an optional feature, much like the split-screen capability was for me during my initial foray into iPad-only use. Having it available doesn’t mean you must utilize it. If you find elements you enjoy while discussing areas for improvement, that’s fair. However, too often, criticism lacks depth, resulting in sweeping judgments about the entire iPad experience.
Stage Manager indeed offers various useful features. Although the initial iPadOS 16 rollout was lacking, iPadOS 17 introduced significant enhancements, making it a valuable multitasking tool. While I may not fully embrace it, the overlapping windows feature feels unnecessary since the iPad has its unique identity. Nevertheless, it can be advantageous when managing multiple apps simultaneously.
I haven’t extensively tested Stage Manager on the 12.9-inch model, so my insights are primarily based on the 11-inch variant. I acknowledge that the experience could differ on a larger screen. Still, the key takeaway remains: you’re not obligated to use any specific feature. The iPad offers various interaction methods, and the reasons that led you to adopt an iPad-only lifestyle still exist within its operating system. If you’re ready for a change, express that clearly without disparaging the device, as it’s ultimately about personal growth.
The Future of the iPad
I remain uncertain about Apple’s plans for iPadOS, but at this moment, it’s not a concern for me. Should Apple begin to strip away features, I would take issue with that. While the rocky launch of Stage Manager raises eyebrows—why would Apple release something so flawed?—it seems they addressed the major problems in iPadOS 17.
Apple must focus on enhancing the iPad Pro lineup, as the diverse array of overlapping models can be perplexing. However, I understand the strategy; Apple aims to cater to a broad spectrum of customers. Most users prioritize aesthetics, screen size, and storage over technical specifications.
However, as I’ve previously noted, Apple should extend its attention to the iPad Pro, similar to the care shown to the MacBook Pro. We need refreshed designs, additional ports, and an updated Magic Keyboard. I suspect Apple has plans for these improvements. Instead of threatening to abandon the iPad, I choose to value the device I currently own, opting to upgrade when necessary. For now, it remains my preferred platform, regardless of any potential future iterations.
Does the iPad Deserve More Attention?
Recent years have demonstrated a significant shift in how Apple approaches its Mac lineup. Rumors suggest that Apple...
Ultimately, as I conclude my thoughts, I emphasize that those who are disheartened by Apple’s iPad and iPadOS offerings should reflect on their feelings, as the fault lies not with Apple. Expecting a profit-driven company to meet your specific demands is unreasonable. If you love a product but desire something different, express that and move forward. Stop attributing blame to Apple and instead examine why you feel frustrated with a corporation updating its products without diminishing the qualities that initially drew you to them. In short, it’s time to mature.
Subscribe to my Substack:
Techuisite Digest | Paul ???? | Substack
Read Techuisite Digest, a newsletter by Paul ????, featuring insights and updates on technology. [techuisite.substack.com](https://techuisite.substack.com)