Theoretical discussion here, but ever since the iPad first came out, I've always viewed it as a sheet of glass driven by the software as far as functionality, etc.<p>Apple's upgrade cycles, as they've always been, are very iterative, in that one generation to the next doesn't necessarily prompt mass upgrades.<p>So, for a fun topic, hardware wise, what would be a great way for Apple (or any hardware manufacturer) to innovate on the iPad hardware for the next generation?
<i>puts on my dipshit hat</i><p>From a software perspective, I want people to normalize open bootloaders again. The iPad is really capable hardware held back by an overly opinionated OS that feels like a toll-booth on a treadmill. I want to love iOS, but iOS loves to hate me... even booting into a Termux instance on Linux would be preferable to me. I know that's a passe opinion though, so I'll add some other complaints.<p>Hardware-wise, I think Apple should take a few cues from the Surface Pro. The kickstand on that <i>really</i> emphasizes it as a laptop alternative, and user-replaceable storage was a respectful addition that earned the "Pro" moniker. I think the iPad is capable of reprising both features, even if only for the Pro models. As-is, the current iPad Pro features feel more like enthusiast upgrades rather than professional tools. That's not <i>bad</i>, but they could do better.<p>I'll be the first to admit that I <i>far</i> prefer the iPhone 4-style boxy design of the newer iPads. It's so much better than the rounded space-age models in a lot of ways. The only tweak I'd make in that department is a return to flush camera modules (even if it means lower-quality cameras). As a former iPad owner, I can count the number of photos I took on one hand. I can count the number of times the iPad didn't lay flat in the thousands.<p>So honestly, I think most of the iPad's problems are in software right now. While we're dreaming, it would be nice to see a more repairable/accessible design that emphasizes repairing/replacing the front glass panel. It's a very expensive repair, and third-party covers are already quite popular in the aftermarket.
12.9" iPad Air, especially if the iPad Pro moves to OLED and even higher prices.<p>Rebrand the current iPad Mini as a Mini Air and introduce a low-cost Mini again even if that means previous-gen chipsets.<p>Move everything to USB-C and USB 3.0+, none of this USB 2.0 bullshit they did on the phones.<p>More RAM everywhere. App reloads and resprings are killing me when trying to get any real work done on an allegedly "Pro" iPad.