IPadOS facts for kids
iPadOS is a special kind of computer program, called an operating system, made by Apple Inc. It's designed specifically for iPad tablet computers. It was first released on September 24, 2019. Before iPadOS, iPads used a system called iOS, which is also used on iPhones. iPadOS was created to give iPads more powerful features, making them work more like a regular computer.
The logo for iPadOS
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| Company / developer | Apple Inc. |
|---|---|
| Programmed in | C, C++, Objective-C, Swift, assembly language |
| OS family | Unix-like, based on Darwin (BSD), iOS |
| Working state | Current |
| Source model | Closed source |
| Initial release | September 24, 2019 |
| Marketing target | Tablet computers |
| Available language(s) | 40 languages |
| Update method | OTA, Software Update, App Store |
| Supported platforms |
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| Kernel type | Hybrid (XNU) |
| Default user interface | Cocoa Touch (multi-touch, GUI) |
| License | Proprietary software except for open-source components |
| Preceded by | iOS 12 |
Contents
What is iPadOS?
iPadOS is the main software that runs on all modern iPads. It allows you to open apps, browse the internet, play games, and do many other things. Think of it as the brain of your iPad, making everything work smoothly. It's designed to be easy to use with your fingers on the touch screen.
How is iPadOS Different from iOS?
Even though iPadOS came from iOS, Apple made special changes for the iPad's larger screen. These changes help you do more things at once, like working on two apps side-by-side. It also added features that make the iPad feel more like a traditional computer.
Key Features of iPadOS
iPadOS includes many features that make the iPad powerful for school, creativity, and fun.
Multitasking and Split View
One of the biggest changes is how you can use multiple apps at the same time.
- Split View lets you open two apps next to each other. For example, you can write a report on one side and look up information on the internet on the other.
- Slide Over allows a third app to float over your main apps. This is useful for quickly checking messages or notes.
- Multiple Windows for the same app means you can have two Safari windows open at once.
Improved Home Screen
The Home Screen on iPadOS is more flexible.
- You can place widgets directly on the Home Screen. Widgets show quick information like weather or calendar events.
- The app icons are arranged in a way that uses the larger screen space better.
Files App and External Storage
The Files app was greatly improved.
- It works more like a file manager on a computer. You can easily find, organize, and manage your documents, photos, and other files.
- iPadOS lets you connect external hard drives or USB flash drives to your iPad. This means you can save and open files directly from these devices.
Apple Pencil and Keyboard Support
iPadOS makes the Apple Pencil even more useful.
- You can use the Apple Pencil to mark up documents, draw, and write notes.
- There's a feature called Scribble that turns your handwritten notes into typed text.
- iPadOS also works well with external keyboards and trackpads or mice. This makes typing and navigating much faster, especially for schoolwork.
Safari Web Browser
The Safari web browser on iPadOS is more like a desktop browser.
- It automatically loads the desktop version of websites, not the mobile version. This gives you a full web experience.
- It supports a download manager, so you can easily see and manage your downloaded files.
Supported iPad Models
iPadOS runs on many different iPad models. When a new version of iPadOS comes out, Apple usually makes it available for iPads released in the last few years. Some of the models that support iPadOS include:
- iPad Air 2
- iPad Air (3rd generation)
- iPad (5th generation)
- iPad (6th generation)
- iPad (7th generation)
- iPad Mini 4
- iPad Mini (5th generation)
- Various iPad Pro models (9.7-inch, 10.5-inch, 11-inch, and 12.9-inch)
How to Get Updates
Apple regularly releases updates for iPadOS. These updates can add new features, fix problems, and improve security. You can update your iPad wirelessly through the Settings app, or by connecting it to a computer. Apps on your iPad are updated through the App Store.
See also
In Spanish: IPadOS para niños
