WWDC 2022 starts in a few weeks from now. On June 6, Apple is likely to announce iPadOS 16, which will mark the next major release of Apple’s iPad software platform. Go below as we summarize all the latest rumors and expectations for iOS 16 this year, including new features, release details and more.
When will iPadOS 16 be announced? ‘
iPadOS 16 is likely to be announced on June 6 during WWDC 2022’s keynote. The event will be online, though some students and developers will be able to attend the keynote in person at Apple Park.
Following the announcement, Apple will test the operating system for a few months until it is released to all users around September, as the company has done in recent years.
iPadOS 16 supported devices
One of the biggest questions people have every year is whether Apple will drop support for an older iPad model. With last year’s release of iPadOS 15, Apple maintained compatibility with all the devices supported by iPadOS 14, even though it limited many features.
An early rumor suggests that Apple plans to drop support for the iPhone 6s and the original iPhone SE. If so, the iPadOS 16 may be incompatible with the iPad mini 4, iPad Air 2, iPad (fifth generation) and the original iPad Pro models.
With that in mind, here’s what iPads could possibly receive iPadOS 16:
New features with iPadOS 16
Right now, there are two main features expected for iPadOS 16: a new multitasking interface and a renewed look for notifications.
The rumored focus on notifications is interesting because Apple has made several changes to the iOS notification system over the last two years, with the introduction of features like Notification Summary and Focus Modes. However, it seems that Apple is still not happy with the implementation of notifications throughout iOS, and is planning several changes for this year.
In addition, iPadOS users have year after year asked Apple to bring a better multitasking interface to Pro users. For example, Windows would be the surest bid to really enhance the iPad experience with larger screens. Although the company has made it easier to use Slide Over and Split View, the operating system is still not there.
Pro apps, such as Final Cut Pro, and the ability to have different accounts for the same iPad – just like on macOS and tvOS – are also feature requests from users for years.
9to5Mac’s Take
We expect more details on the iPadOS 16 to emerge as we approach WWDC 2022, which launches on June 6th. While Apple will announce tons of new features if the iPadOS 16 finally gets a proper multitasking interface, this will be a huge improvement for the operating system.
Personally, I hope to see Apple renew messages in a way that makes it much clearer and easier to see your latest messages without awkward grouping. I’m also hoping for some updates to the home screen widgets, especially in terms of interactivity, and major updates to the Home app and HomeKit in general.
What do you hope to see in iPadOS 16? What’s at the top of your wish list? Tell us in the comments!
Related:
FTC: We use revenue-earning auto affiliate links. More.
Check out 9to5Mac on YouTube for more Apple news: