iPadOS 19 Will Bring Mac-Like Features to the iPad, Report Says

Apple is reportedly preparing a major iPadOS 19 update that will bring the iPad experience closer than ever to that of the Mac. According to a new report from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the upcoming software will introduce enhanced productivity tools, advanced multitasking features, and better window management—all designed to make the iPad function more like a desktop computer.

This marks a notable shift for the platform. While Apple has long emphasized the iPad’s power and flexibility, many users have felt its software hasn’t kept up with the hardware. Gurman says this update is a response to those concerns: “It’s been a long time coming, with iPad power users pleading with Apple to make the tablet more powerful.”

iPadOS Evolves with the Hardware

The software update comes on the heels of Apple introducing the M4 chip to the iPad Pro last year, with Gurman noting that it “seriously makes the device fly.” Apple is now expected to pair iPadOS 19 with new iPad Pro models running the even faster M5 chip.

For years, users and developers alike have pointed out the gap between the iPad’s impressive performance capabilities and its more limited operating system. iPadOS 19 may finally start to close that gap.

What's Expected in iPadOS 19

While full details haven’t been confirmed, Gurman reports the focus will be on three core areas:

• Productivity improvements that allow users to better leverage iPad hardware

• Multitasking enhancements, likely building on Stage Manager and other recent updates

• App window management, giving users more control over how apps are opened, resized, and arranged

These changes won't mean the iPad will run macOS anytime soon, but they aim to make the device feel much more like a Mac—especially for those using a Magic Keyboard or external display.

Consistency Across Apple’s Platforms

Gurman also notes that Apple is working toward more visual consistency across its platforms. With a visionOS-inspired design said to be coming to iOS 19, macOS 16, and watchOS 12, iPadOS will be part of a broader effort to unify Apple’s ecosystem.

WWDC 2025, set to begin on June 9, is expected to showcase these updates in full. iPad software will reportedly be a major theme of the event.

For iPad users hoping to unlock more from their devices, this update could be a significant step forward. With powerful hardware already in place, iPadOS 19 may finally give users the software experience they’ve been asking for.