Now that the iPad and iMac even have the same processor, it is rumored that Apple wants to merge the two products. In a new interview, the company explains why this is not going to happen.
Apple: iPad and Mac will continue to co-exist
The differences between the iPad and Mac have been getting smaller for years. Since macOS 11, the Mac software version that came out in 2020, you can run iPhone and iPad apps on an Apple computer, for example.
The rapprochement does not stop there. For example, the iPad Pro 2021 presented last week is powered by an M1 chip. This processor is also in the brand new iMac, MacBook Air, MacBook Pro (13 inch) and Mac mini.
You would say this is the signal that Apple is going to merge the Mac and iPad, right? Nothing turns out to be further from the truth. In an interview with TechCrunch the company explains that the two will remain side by side. In fact, there is no question of merging at all.
Two product groups
Greg Joswiak and John Ternus, who are responsible for marketing and product development at Apple, explain that the iPad and Mac are two completely different product groups.
“The iPad is on one end of the spectrum, and the iMac is on the other end,” says Joswiak. “The truth is, neither product is right. The iPad and Mac are the best products in their category, but not an alternative to each other. ”
Ternus continues: “It is therefore never the case that we favor one product to the detriment of another. No, instead we always try to make the best iPad or Mac possible. Some people use both an iPad and Mac, while others prefer one of the two. Both are fine as far as we are concerned. ”
From a business point of view, there is little reason for Apple to merge the two. “Most Mac owners also have an iPad,” says Joswiak. “These people don’t own an iPad because they want to replace their Mac, but because they want to use the right tools at the right time. Sometimes an iPad is useful, other times the Mac is ideal ”
Building on this, the Apple marketing man also explains why he thinks the iPad is not a tablet. “You have iPads and tablets. Tablets are not very good, iPads are. ”
More about the iPad Pro and iMac
Last week, Apple announced the iPad Pro 2021 and iMac 2021. Both have received quite a few improvements. The new iPad Pro includes 5G internet, an M1 processor and the largest variant (with 12.9 inch display) has an impressive Liquid Retina XDR screen.
The Mac has also been given a fresh look. The new Apple desktop is available in several summer colors, has been given a new, flat design and now also runs on the M1 chip. The FaceTime camera has also been improved.
Both the iPad Pro 2021 and iMac 2021 can be ordered from this Friday. The pre-order starts at 2:00 PM. The release will then take place a week later. Keep an eye on iPhone for the best deals. You follow us best via the website, newsletter and free iOS app.