The strategy behind the split
Why the divide matters
This is potentially an important development for anyone who has been patiently awaiting the day when they could buy an iPad that would replace their laptop altogether. Apple is choosing to create a very distinct dual-device experience, where people will opt to buy both products and thus make the most out of the experience of using the features of Sidecar and Continuity.
Unlike competing brands, such as Huawei, which recently showed off their foldable product that could be used as a hybrid computer, Apple is not exactly in the same mindset. That said, if you are a creative person or a student, that missing middle product will not be available anytime soon.
A shift in the hardware roadmap
I have spent a lot of time trying to replace my MacBook with an iPad Pro, and while I was able to make it work, the sacrifices that had to be made were at the expense of my productivity. I love the portability of the iPad, and it is all I take on work trips with me, but those instances are not the norm.
My experience with the latest iPadOS 26 updates shows that there is still a bit of a restricted experience on the iPad when it comes to multitasking, but the experience of the touch-screen MacBook could be the closest we ever get to the hybrid computer experience.
