The iPad Pro is one of the top tablets available. It runs on Apple’s M-series chips, which outperform many entry-level laptops. The design feels modern and sleek, but there’s a catch—iPadOS.
Despite the raw power of the hardware, iPadOS still feels like an enlarged version of iOS. Multitasking features like Stage Manager were introduced to improve the user experience, but many power users find it lacks the flexibility they need. Instead of full customization, users are offered preset layouts that can be frustrating.
In contrast, Android 16 has made significant strides in its Desktop Windowing feature. With this update, it gives users a much more laptop-like experience. When connecting an external monitor, Android 16 allows users to access a familiar taskbar. You can pin your favorite apps, snap windows, and easily manage your workspace.
Recent surveys show that users appreciate this desktop-like functionality. A majority of Android users believe it enhances productivity, especially for tasks that require multiple apps running at once. The constant visibility of the taskbar in Android is another plus, unlike iPadOS, where the Dock hides when an app goes full screen.
Apple’s Stage Manager attempts to create an organized workspace by adjusting windows automatically, but this can disrupt workflow. Many users have found this feature unpredictable when managing multiple pieces of information. Android’s passive window management, where each window stays in place as you drag them, offers better control.
For power users, there’s even more to love about Android 16. It supports running Linux applications, a feature absent on iPadOS. The Android Virtualization Framework allows users to run desktop Linux apps like GIMP or LibreOffice alongside their Android apps. This functionality showcases a versatility that iPadOS struggles to match.
Yet, Android isn’t perfect. A major limitation is its fragmentation. Not every device supports the required DisplayPort for full desktop capabilities. Additionally, older Android apps designed for smartphones may not work seamlessly in this new windowing environment, potentially leading to overlapping UI elements or displays that feel too small.
The evolution of Android’s desktop mode alters how we think about technology. Users can turn high-end phones, such as the Google Pixel 10, into workstations simply by connecting them to a monitor and USB hub. This means for many, an additional device like an iPad Pro may no longer be necessary.
In summary, while both the iPad Pro and Android 16 have their strengths, the latter’s advancements in desktop experience and versatility make it a compelling choice for productivity-focused users. As Android continues to refine these features, it will be fascinating to see how this impacts the tablet landscape in the coming years.
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