# The Progression of the iPad: An Exploration of iPadOS 26
In the past few years, the iPad has encountered growing competition from Apple’s own MacBook series, prompting many users to rethink their dependence on the tablet. A year prior, I noted my declining usage of the iPad, largely due to the emergence of Apple Silicon MacBooks, which effectively eliminated the divide between laptops and tablets. Nevertheless, with the advent of iPadOS 26, I found myself reassessing the iPad’s significance in my digital ecosystem.
## Reasons I (Nearly) Ceased Using My iPads
The main factors contributing to my reduced usage of the iPad can be encapsulated in five points. Four of these reasons arise from the progress made in MacBooks, which have rendered them more suitable for my requirements. The instant on/off function of the iPad is now mirrored by the MacBook experience. Furthermore, the dependability of mobile hotspots from iPhones has greatly improved, while the weight of MacBooks has lessened, enhancing their portability. Battery performance has advanced to a level where the difference between the two devices is minimal for my needs.
The fifth factor for my shift away from the iPad was the arrival of Viture One XR glasses, which took over my iPad mini’s role as my preferred personal entertainment gadget. The sole exception to my iPad usage is that I continue to use it as a dedicated eBook reader for library books, since the Libby app is unsupported by Kindle in the UK.
## iPadOS 26: A Significant Upgrade
Despite my earlier assertions that my 12.9-inch iPad Pro was gathering dust, iPadOS 26 has reshaped my view of the device. The most substantial improvement is the introduction of genuine windowing capabilities. Previously, the iPad was confined to a single-tasking atmosphere, but with the updated version, users can launch multiple apps and arrange them much like on a Mac.
This new windowing framework permits enhanced flexibility, allowing users to position, resize, and overlay windows as desired. Although there’s a maximum of 12 apps on-screen at any given time, this compares favorably with the number of windows I usually have open on my Mac.
Logitech has also tackled ergonomic issues with the launch of the new Flip Folio keyboard, which allows for versatile positioning. However, while this design is attractive, it compromises some usability, especially the ability to comfortably use the keyboard on one’s lap.
## The MacBook Air: The Deciding Factor
Despite the improvements in iPadOS 26, my recent acquisition of a MacBook Air has reinforced my preference for the Mac over the iPad. If I hadn’t already adopted the MacBook Air as my main mobile computing device, I may have been tempted by the iPad’s enhanced features. However, the timing of these upgrades has come too late for me.
The MacBook Air provides several benefits that secure its position at the forefront of my digital toolkit:
– **More robust apps**: The MacBook accommodates a broader selection of applications that outperform those available on the iPad.
– **Lap usability**: The iPad with the Magic Keyboard seems less stable on my lap in contrast to the MacBook.
– **Key utilities**: I depend on various tools that are more readily accessible on the Mac.
– **Comfort and familiarity**: The Mac’s interface is more comfortable and familiar to me.
– **Weight factors**: The MacBook Air is lighter than the combination of the 12.9-inch iPad and the Magic Keyboard.
While I recognize the progress Apple has made in improving the iPad’s software to maximize its hardware capabilities, my longstanding preference for the Mac remains intact. The introduction of an Apple Silicon MacBook Air has firmly solidified my commitment to the Mac ecosystem.
## Conclusion
To conclude, iPadOS 26 marks a considerable advancement for the iPad, bringing it closer to operating as a genuine computer. However, for users like me who have already transitioned to MacBooks, these enhancements may not be sufficient to alter our allegiance. The iPad’s evolution is commendable, and it will undoubtedly benefit many users, but for the time being, the MacBook Air is my device of choice.
