On the desktop

As the iPad Pro brings iOS to work, what’s the next move for macOS?

Why do Apple’s desktop and mobile products still run different operating systems? Because we use them differently, says software chief Craig Federighi. At WWDC 2018, he confirmed macOS and iOS won’t merge. We think Apple is looking at moving the Mac to ARM-based processors, like in iPhone and iPad, but not as soon as 2019.

That’s not to say the Mac won’t borrow from iOS. Features like Notifications migrated long ago, and Mojave has brought Dark Mode, simplified file management (via Stacks) and increasing ‘walled garden’ security. When the next macOS update is previewed at WWDC in June, expect more iOS-like immediacy. Within apps, access to more common functions could reduce switching to Finder. Conversely, following the Quick Actions feature added to Finder, there’ll be more ways to complete tasks without opening an app.

But 2019’s macOS will also be made for the new Mac Pro, demanding features to facilitate intensive workflows. Could we see a two-tier macOS, with ‘advanced’ features hidden until needed? Meanwhile, despite their separation, expect more integrations between iOS and macOS, including instant syncing and access to each other’s cameras and screens.

“The pro community is very diverse. We need to be engaging with customers to understand their needs” John Ternus, Apple Pro Workflow Team