Apple Working on Split-Screen Multitasking, Multi-User Support for iPad

[spinedoc77]

I don't know where you got five years from. Five years ago tablets (as we know them know) just barely existed. Even today it's not like the competing split-screen options are setting the world on fire. They range from mediocre (Windows) to horrible (Samsung). I don't know what Apple will accomplish, but it's hard think of them as behind when the current implementations are mostly junk.

Windows multi screen is awesome. You can have more than 2 windows, they resize quite easily with a fingertip, etc. If you want even finer control you can go crazy with windows in desktop mode. The advantage of this is that when you dock your windows tablet then you can manipulate windows in complex ways since you are on a real computer. I'm only guessing here, but whatever janky method Apple uses in iOS to multitask will be crappy when hooked up like a desktop, if that's even an option with the non existent mouse support.

And you're right, 5 years doesn't make sense. I think it's probably closer to 20 years. Tablets did in fact exist before the iPad. Certainly Apple's genius marketing made them mainstream, but that doesn't make them revolutionary from a technical view.

 

[adnbek]

I don't really see the point of multi-window multi-tasking... It's a tablet, not a computer. The screen on the iPad is tiny. I own a 15" rMBP and the screen is small enough that I run the majority of my applications full screen. Even on my 27" monitor, I tend to have applications like my browser full screen...

The trackpad on the MacBook is awesome with Spaces, I just switch from apps to apps with a flick of fingers. Same on the iPad with gestures. That's even faster than clicking on a application to bring it to the front.
Split-screen on the iPad will only work with the applications that are compatible. Moreover, a lot of applications will work, but the user experience will not be optimal when having only half the screen. I would just rather have plenty of RAM and optimized switching to be able to flick very quickly from app to app.

Well thankfully adding new features doesn't obligate you to use them. Crisis averted.

 

[spinedoc77]

So you imagine the reason iOS does not have multi tasking is that Apple is behind and lack the technical know how to implement it. That's just precious.

No I think he's smarter than that. Apple makes very smart business decisions such as convincing consumers they need 2 devices, one that multitasks and one that doesn't multitask.

 

[myrtlebee]

Why not? The Samsung Tab A does it and it's pretty much the same size as the Mini and less powerful.

Wouldn't it be too small? I don't know much about this topic, so maybe my concept of what it would be like is not right.

Edit: Nevermind, just realized there was a video for it in the article that shows how you could resize the two apps to your choosing. Seems promising.

 

[Soccertess]

Windows multi screen is awesome.

I tend to agree, Microsoft has done some good things lately! Not sure it can all be attributed to Steve Ballmer leaving but the timing is suspicious...

I'm glad Apple is working on something that consumers have been asking for... But I want them to release something that consumers don't know they want because it is so damn innovative and awesome!

 

[JustThinkin']

Just adding a stylus won't work for the ipad pro; imo thats a weak idea and will be telling of Apples post jobs ingenuity. i'd like to see some sort of os x, ios hybrid.

My surface pro 3 is where its at right now for work. For media consumption, still cant beat my ipad air 2. I carry both when i travel, they still weigh less then my old MBP which was a back ache to lug around the airport.

Sorry the shift and punctuation keys are getting stuck on your keyboard, but maybe you can give the man (Jobs) a little more respect.


It's too bad - it looks like you have something useful to say, but this is so distracting your meaning gets lost.

 

[subjonas]

The iPad Pro, if there is such a thing, will only be 13", that's still pretty small. But that's also big enough that touch interaction will become uneasy. Just like using a large (A4 or more) graphic tablet is annoying.

"Also it's not just about quickly getting from app to app. It's about seeing both simultaneously. Eg. taking notes on a video, copying a complex formula, sketching from an image."

I still feel that putting side by side is lazy design since it just recycles interactions models from the desktop without trying to find something better suited for a small touch device. For instance, for some of your use cases, transparency would work better.

For some people 13" is big enough to be worth having a split screen. For others, it would be worth it even with 10". For others, 21" or 27" is the minimum. Everyone's needs, use cases, and preferences are different.

As for your transparency idea, it wouldn't work for the specific uses cases I was thinking of because the writing/drawing would get in the way of what I want to see, but I'm sure that would be useful for certain cases.
It's hard to bypass the need for side-by-side comparisons in life in general. If Apple or someone thinks of a better way, I'd be very curious to see it. In the meantime...

 

[Dennison]

So iPad Pro will have:

• 12.9-inch screen
• Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi + Cellular versions
• USB port
• Split-screen multitasking
• Multi-user login
• Keyboard attachment option

Uh, lol, no...

... and it won't have a stylus either.

 

[Mr Fusion]

I don't think Apple ever wants iPad to become a laptop replacement, just a laptop helper. And I think a lot of that has to do with the app ecosystems that are in place. That said, I do think iOS can add some features to become a better "helper." This split screen functionality is a huge step.

I understand what you're saying. I personally wouldn't throw down money for a "helper" though, same reason I won't be buying the watch. I wish the iPad could replace my laptop while I'm on the road... It does for the most part, but not completely enough that I can leave my laptop at home. It's frustrating.

 

[coolspot18]

Looks good, not sure why they waited so long.

My guess is how the underlying OS handles multi-tasking and the fact that iPads are RAM constrained.

 

[subjonas]

I understand what you're saying. I personally wouldn't throw down money for a "helper" though, same reason I won't be buying the watch. I wish the iPad could replace my laptop while I'm on the road... It does for the most part, but not completely enough that I can leave my laptop at home. It's frustrating.

So you mean a temporary laptop replacement just for while you're out. I hear you. I want that too. I want an iPad that can be a satellite of sorts for my macbook--to handle light everyday work while I'm out, so that I can save bringing my macbook for only the heavier tasks. As of now the iPad has too many limitations to even do that, for me. Not to mention the work flow between the two devices is too convoluted (or it requires various paid cloud subscrIptions).

Just curious, what things would you need it to do in order for you to be able to leave your laptop at home for the most part? For me, the main things would be split screen, less refresh, a file system, and automatic file sync with computer over home wifi network. If it had those I would be good to go, for the most part.

 

[AlecZ]

Because you know that's exactly what Apple is gonna do, to help "distinguish" it from the other two iPad models. *ugh*

You hit the nail on the head.

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I don't get it. Just buy a laptop.

 

[tdale]

So iPad Pro will have:

• 12.9-inch screen
• Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi + Cellular versions
• USB port
• Split-screen multitasking
• Multi-user login
• Keyboard attachment option

So the question is, how much? 16GB iPad Air 2 starts at $500, but with "Pro" moniker, I am guessing the entry level iPad Pro will be equipped with 64GB. So minimum starting price will likely be $700 for Wi-Fi 64GB iPad Pro, going up to $1030 for 256GB Wi-Fi + Cellular configuration.

That is awfully close to 12-inch MacBook ($1300 with Wi-Fi and 256GB, in contrast to my estimate of $900 for 256GB Wi-Fi version), especially if one adds keyboard attachment smart cover/case (which will easily cost at least $100).

The USB port, which will be USB-C. Will that allow file transfer? Hope so. Bit by bit iOS cold move to not just being a consumption tablet

 

[tdale]

This is a step in the right direction. It'll take many more before iPad becomes useful enough to replace a laptop.

IMO there needs to be a much more robust OS for iPad, something in between OS X and iOS. Needs to be much closer to OS X, otherwise like many have stated before iPad will continue to be nothing more than iPhone with a slightly larger screen.

I disagree. I see it this way. iOS is ideal for a smaller screen, all the apps are looking at you. What needs to happen is list the tasks that are easier on an MBA and why. Resolve them. Do we need Finder or a file system? No. If all my files are in the app they can be used on, and if that app has an ability to create,rename etc folders, then all my files are where I know they are. Easy. Mini Finders per each app. Want to copy a 5GB file? Connect the flash drive to USB-C, up pops a requestor, choose the app. Two small examples, to me, its about allowing iOS to take care of the current restrictions, while keeping the uncluttered UI

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Better late than never, I guess.

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If they're going that high, I'd just get a Surface Pro and then never have to deal with all the inherent limitations placed on the device by Apple.

I agree but I see Apple competing with Microsofts tablets (which are also capable laptops) by easing away the limitations

 

[Marx55]

Just get a real computer and tablet: a Surface Pro 3. The Macbook Air doesn't even have a touchscreen.

See? Two can play this ridiculous game.

No way. Hint: the secret is in the interface. Avoid the horrible windows obnoxious GUI like a plague!

 

[Rogifan]

Uh, lol, no...

... and it won't have a stylus either.

So what are all those Apple stylus patents for then? They've got tons of them.

 

[Lictor]

So what are all those Apple stylus patents for then? They've got tons of them.

They're for what most patents are for : preventing the competition from being able to innovate. Companies like Apple and Microsoft deposit kilograms of patents daily - that's why the patent office is not able to verify that they're valid. Most of them are never used, unless a competitor happens to integrate an innovation that might be covered by one of your patents.

 

[Dennison]

So what are all those Apple stylus patents for then? They've got tons of them.

I was asked directly, but somebody answered for me:

They're for what most patents are for : preventing the competition from being able to innovate. Companies like Apple and Microsoft deposit kilograms of patents daily - that's why the patent office is not able to verify that they're valid. Most of them are never used, unless a competitor happens to integrate an innovation that might be covered by one of your patents.

##

 

[Vegasman]

First try dude and I can't even pronounce Olive that well with my Speech impediment. It took about 3 seconds
Tried it on Windows 10 with Cortana, it took two tries and 3-4 seconds for results (not bad). My roommate's girlfriend tried it with Cortana on her Windows Phone and it failed 4 times already.

I'm texting my Gamers group and fellow Percussionists right now for more results.

Really excited to hear it always works perfectly for you and everyone you know.

 

[iamPro]

How about finally letting us have multiple users for the desktop/Apple TV photos app?

Pleeeeze!!

 

[jm001]

So iPad Pro will have:

• 12.9-inch screen
• Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi + Cellular versions
• USB port
• Split-screen multitasking
• Multi-user login
• Keyboard attachment option

So the question is, how much? 16GB iPad Air 2 starts at $500, but with "Pro" moniker, I am guessing the entry level iPad Pro will be equipped with 64GB. So minimum starting price will likely be $700 for Wi-Fi 64GB iPad Pro, going up to $1030 for 256GB Wi-Fi + Cellular configuration.

That is awfully close to 12-inch MacBook ($1300 with Wi-Fi and 256GB, in contrast to my estimate of $900 for 256GB Wi-Fi version), especially if one adds keyboard attachment smart cover/case (which will easily cost at least $100).

It's also been reported to have NFC and Touch ID.

 

[duffman9000]

"For iPad Air 2 or newer"

On anything older split-screen multitasking would probably be app-reload-city. It would be really funny to be working on an email, switch to Safari, back to Mail, and then see your email disappear as the Mail app reloads.

 

[bawbac]

Taking a look at your signature, I couldn't help but just

Just because I purchase a manufacturer's products does not mean I need to defend it or explain why I believe it's the best.
Apple makes great stuff but I hate the hold back on technology/features/options just for the sake of future revenue.
Apple reminds me of Blockbuster when they got huge. They didn't listen to their consumer base and where are they now...

 

[duffman9000]

^^^ iPad sales have cratered. Instead of concentrating on new features, it's been the same-ol-same for years.

 

[Leonard1818]

"For iPad Air 2 or newer"

How would you suggest they retrofit older iPads with the hardware required to power split screens?

When autonomous cars come out are you going to complain that your 2001 Civic can't drive itself too?