TLDR;
This video discusses the experience of using iPadOS 26 on the iPad Mini and its implications for the future of iOS and iPhones. It covers the role of the iPad Mini in the iPad lineup, the new windowing system in iPadOS 26, file management upgrades, and the potential for multitasking and a Mac OS-like experience on iPhones.
- iPadOS 26 enhances the iPad Mini experience with a new windowing system and improved file management.
- The iPad Mini is highlighted as the quintessential iPad, emphasizing its portability and tablet-first design.
- The video explores the possibility of bringing multitasking features and a Mac OS-like interface to iPhones.
iPadOS 26 on iPad Mini [0:00]
The author shares initial impressions of iPadOS 26, noting its impressive performance on the iPad Mini. After testing it on the M4 iPad Pro, the author installed it on the iPad Mini to evaluate the experience. The author discusses the implications of iPadOS 26 for the iPad lineup, particularly the iPad Mini, and speculates on potential future developments for iOS and iPhones.
The role of the iPad Mini [0:37]
The iPad Mini is presented as the most quintessential iPad in the lineup. While the M4 iPad Pro is seen as a computer replacement due to its Magic Keyboard and powerful chip, and the base iPad is geared towards students, the iPad Mini embodies the true essence of a tablet. Its small size, portability, and A17 Pro chip make it ideal for tablet use. The iPad Mini's lack of pin connectors and direct keyboard support reinforces its primary function as a tablet, closely mirroring the iPhone experience but with iPadOS.
How iPadOS 26 changes the Mini [1:54]
iPadOS 26 is changing perceptions of the iPad Mini, particularly with its new windowing system. This system hints at a potential convergence of iOS, iPadOS, and even Mac OS. The author expresses excitement about the features available on the iPad Mini, mirroring those on the iPad Pro.
Liquid Glass design [4:15]
The iPad Mini features the liquid glass redesign, which is consistent across iOS, iPadOS, and macOS devices. This design overhaul is present throughout the system, including settings, the home screen, and themed icons. The author notes ongoing improvements in the public beta version and expresses overall satisfaction with the aesthetic.
New windowing system [4:47]
The new windowing system in iPadOS 26 is a significant change, especially on the iPad Mini. While it feels natural on the larger 13-inch iPad Pro with its Magic Keyboard and M4 chip, its implementation on the 8.3-inch iPad Mini is surprisingly effective. The system includes traffic light window management (red, yellow, green buttons) and allows multitasking with up to 12 apps, multiple views, and resizable windows. Apple has optimized the touch interface, enlarging touch points for easier use with fingers or the Apple Pencil Pro. The fluid resizing and intuitive gestures enhance the multitasking experience, making the iPad Mini more productive.
File management upgrades [7:14]
File management in iPadOS 26 has been improved, mirroring the enhancements on the M4 iPad Pro. The file system is now easier to navigate, sort, and customize. Users can add specific files, folders, and file types to the dock for quick access. Additional features include color-coding, icon tagging, and overall streamlined file management.
What this means for iPhone [7:32]
The advancements in iPadOS 26 suggest potential future developments for iOS and iPhones. The ability to multitask effectively on the iPad Mini's smaller display indicates that similar multitasking capabilities could be implemented on iPhones, particularly larger models like the Pro Max or Plus. The author suggests a split-screen view for running two apps simultaneously. The author shares personal experience with the Galaxy Z Fold, noting the unexpected usefulness of multitasking on its screens. The author contrasts this with the tedious multitasking experience on iPhones, where users must constantly switch between apps.
Mac OS light on iPhone? [9:26]
The author discusses the possibility of a Mac OS-like experience coming to iOS. Connecting an iPad Mini running iPadOS 26 to an external display mirrors the screen, but with a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse, it offers a desktop-like experience. The improved window management, customizable dock, and task menu contribute to this feel. The author draws a comparison to Samsung's Dex mode, where plugging in a phone creates a desktop environment. The author suggests that future iPhones with USB-C ports and powerful chipsets could offer a similar feature, enabling light editing, communication, and web browsing on an external display. This could lead to innovative desk setups centered around the iPhone.
Final thoughts [11:36]
The author concludes by reiterating that iPadOS 26 on the iPad Mini demonstrates the potential for multitasking and a Mac OS-like experience on iPhones. The success of window management and the sheer power of the iPad Mini suggest that similar features could be incorporated into future versions of iOS. The author encourages viewers to share their thoughts on the possibility of a Mac OS light version for iPhones and their desire for improved multitasking capabilities.