Apple has released iOS 18.0.1 and iPadOS 18.0.1, addressing critical bugs in the Password and Messages apps. While these updates are primarily focused on bug fixes, they pave the way for the upcoming iOS 18.1, which promises to introduce the highly anticipated Apple Intelligence feature.
iPadOS 18 falls short of expectations for power users, failing to deliver the promised computing-worthy overhaul. While it offers some positive features like improved Notes and Messages, it still suffers from frustrating shortcomings like limited multitasking, app scaling issues, and a lack of essential functionality.
Antstream Arcade, a subscription service offering over 1,300 retro games, is launching on iOS and iPadOS on June 27. This follows Apple’s recent changes to iOS, allowing for third-party app stores and streaming platforms, making retro gaming on iPhones and iPads more accessible. Antstream offers a curated library of games from various classic consoles, including Amiga, Atari 2600, PlayStation 1, and SNES, and features challenges and tournaments for multiplayer fun. The service will cost $4 per month or $30 per year for a limited time after its launch.
The new iPad Pro with the M4 chip is an impressive machine that is a step above the competition. It is a true generation-over-generation upgrade that commands a worthy premium. The performance gain is brazenly evident, and the new Magic Keyboard is a substantial overhaul that feels like a more substantial overhaul than the iPad Pro itself. Overall, the M4-driven iPad Pro is the finest device Apple has ever made, but it is limited by iPadOS, which is a criminally hobbled operating system that doesn’t do justice to what the iPad Pro hardware ecosystem brings to the table.
Apple’s recent event introduced a new iPad Pro, M4 chip, and Apple Pencil, but the iPad Air with M1 remains a standout value. Due to the launch of an underwhelming new model, the M1 version has received significant price cuts. Now available for just $399, the iPad Air offers a large and bright 10.9-inch display, making it ideal for various tasks and easy to hold with one hand. Despite the absence of the Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard, iPadOS provides robust multitasking features and gesture support, along with Bluetooth mouse and keyboard compatibility. Its long battery life and powerful M1 chip, comparable to Apple laptops, make it a versatile choice for students and professionals. The iPad Air with M1 is still a viable option, especially at its current discounted price.
Apple has unveiled transformative accessibility features that showcase its AI advancements. Eye Tracking empowers users with physical disabilities to seamlessly control their iPhone and iPad solely through eye movements. Listen for Atypical Speech utilizes on-device machine learning to expand Siri’s comprehension of diverse voices. These innovations demonstrate Apple’s unwavering commitment to inclusivity and the potential of AI in enhancing user experiences.
Adding a signature to your Pages document on Mac, iPhone, or iPad is easy with the media features. Whether you want to insert an image of your signature, create one using your Apple Pencil, or simply capture your signature from your iPhone or iPad, Pages offers several convenient methods to help you get the job done.
Apple’s recent hardware upgrades for the iPad Air and iPad Pro models are impressive, featuring the latest M2 and M4 chips, larger screen sizes, and advanced OLED displays. However, the excitement is dampened by the limitations of iPadOS, which remains inadequate for serious productivity work. Despite the powerful hardware, multitasking and file management on the iPad remain tedious compared to a traditional computer. While iPadOS 18 may bring some improvements, the current version falls short in utilizing the full potential of the new iPads. This leaves many users questioning whether the hardware upgrades justify the investment when the software experience remains subpar.
The European Union has designated Apple’s iPadOS as a gatekeeper under the Digital Markets Act (DMA), requiring the tech giant to make significant changes to its tablet ecosystem. Apple has six months to comply with the DMA’s mandates, including allowing third-party app stores, sideloading, and support for third-party payment options. The move expands the number of Apple-owned platforms regulated under the DMA to four, increasing regulatory risk for the company.
After years of waiting, the iPad may finally get its own dedicated Calculator app. According to a new report, Apple is planning to release a universal Calculator app that will be available on iOS, iPadOS, and macOS. The app is expected to feature a redesigned interface, new features, and iCloud compatibility. This move would bring the iPad in line with other Apple devices, which all have their own Calculator apps.
