# The Strengths of iPadOS: Enhancing Productivity with the M4 iPad Pro
Using an M4 iPad Pro does have its drawbacks, yet it brings numerous advantages as well. With the advancement of iPadOS, an array of features has been introduced that bolster productivity and refine workflows. Below are several iPadOS features that have significantly improved my full-time productivity with the iPad.
## 1. iPadOS Home Screen
The Home Screen of the iPad has evolved from a basic app launcher into a multifunctional dashboard. Following the arrival of iPadOS 13 in 2019, widgets have become integral to the Home Screen setup. These widgets can be resized and placed freely, empowering users to tailor their screens to meet their distinct needs.
I take pleasure in personalizing my Home Screen with critical apps, useful widgets, and shortcuts from Apple’s Shortcuts app. This personalization establishes a central hub that boosts my productivity. Although macOS has recently incorporated desktop widgets, iPadOS continues to provide superior flexibility and customization choices. Moreover, I particularly value the convenience of swiping up from the bottom of the screen to return to the Home Screen.
## 2. One App at a Time
One of the standout characteristics of iPadOS is its single-app design. When an app is launched, it fills the entire screen, promoting a concentrated work environment. This design philosophy has heavily influenced my choice to use an iPad for work over the last ten years.
The clarity that arises from focusing on a single app is something I find difficult to achieve on a Mac, where numerous resizable windows can clutter the display and distract from the tasks at hand. The iPad’s streamlined method encourages a more productive mindset.
## 3. Slide Over Multitasking
While I value the concentration that comes from utilizing one app at a time, the Slide Over feature is transformative for multitasking. Slide Over allows me to pull a compact app into view from the side of the iPad’s screen, effectively creating a mini-iPhone app window that hovers over the main app.
This functionality is especially handy for quickly accessing commonly used apps without interfering with my main workspace. During my day, I typically have Safari, Ulysses, or NetNewsWire as my primary app, using Slide Over to toggle between Slack, Messages, Files, Photos, and Reminders. This seamless integration helps me remain focused while still accessing necessary tools.
## iPadOS Features for Accomplishing Tasks: Conclusion
While iPadOS may not suit everyone, it has certainly become my preferred platform for productivity. If you’re thinking about switching your laptop for an M4 iPad Pro, I explore in greater detail why this configuration works for me [here](https://9to5mac.com/2025/01/16/four-reasons-to-make-m4-ipad-pro-your-laptop-replacement/).
What are your top iPadOS features for accomplishing tasks? Feel free to share your opinions in the comments!
### Top iPad Accessories
To further enhance your iPad experience, consider checking out some of the finest accessories available. From keyboards to styluses, the right tools can greatly boost your productivity and render working from your iPad even more pleasurable.
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In summary, the M4 iPad Pro, paired with the powerful features of iPadOS, provides a unique and effective platform for productivity. Whether you are a writer, designer, or someone who needs to handle tasks efficiently, the iPad can be a capable alternative to conventional laptops.
