The evolution of iPadOS marks a departure from the original vision of the iPad as a simple, user-friendly device. Initially intended to emulate Alan Kay's Dynabook and democratize technology, the device has now become an intricate blend of MacOS features and touch functionality. Critics argue this transformation complicates user experience rather than enhancing it, as it introduces overlapping windows and menus reminiscent of traditional computers, clashing with the iPad's initial promise of simplicity and accessibility. This shift represents a significant compromise of the original vision and user intent.
Raskin envisioned them becoming invisible to users-part of their daily life.
Apple believes that all this brings more power to the user. I would argue that it detracts from it.
The iPad has become a cluttered compromise, transformed into MacOS with some touch UX details.
The iPad was meant to be the escape hatch from the cluttered, file-strewn, window-management hellscape of traditional computing.
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