Apple explains why iPads don’t run macOS—even as iPadOS 26 adds Mac-like features. Here’s the full story behind the decision.
Matilda
Why iPads Don’t Run macOS, According to Apple Why iPads Don't Run macOS: Apple Finally Clears the Air Apple fans have long asked a critical question: Why don’t iPads run macOS, especially now that their hardware rivals MacBooks? With the introduction of iPadOS 26, which includes a sophisticated app windowing system and a new top swipe-down menu bar, the iPad feels closer than ever to a Mac. Still, Apple continues to draw a distinct line between iPadOS and macOS. So what’s the real reason behind this separation? Image : Google Craig Federighi, Apple’s Senior VP of Software Engineering, recently provided a clear explanation in a conversation with Swiss tech journalist Rafael Zeier. He said the goal of iPadOS 26 is to strike a delicate balance—giving users more power without compromising the iPad’s core identity. According to Federighi, macOS simply isn’t designed for a touch-first experience, and using it on an iPad would erase what makes the iPad so unique. iPadOS 26 Introduces Mac-Like Feat…
