My 2020 Apple wishlist focuses on iPadOS, iCloud, and Homekit GL-NEWS

Final week, I took a take a look at my 2020 iCloud wishlist. I received a number of variety phrases from readers with different issues they needed to see, so I’m again this week with one other wishlist. This week, it’s my 2020 Apple wishlist throughout the remainder of its software program and {hardware}. Apple was firing on all cylinders in 2019, so I hope that 2020 is one other wonderful 12 months. From new {hardware}, iOS 14, to the continued enlargement of iPadOS, right here’s what I hope to see from Apple this 12 months.

Wi-Fi 6 on Mac, iPad, and Apple TV

Wi-Fi 6 was included within the iPhone 11, however it’s been absent from all of Apple’s different product traces. On the macOS facet, I’ve heard that it’s because of the lack of assist for 802.11ax on the Intel chips macOS is utilizing. The Apple TV {hardware} wasn’t up to date in 2019, in order that takes care of that one and the iPad Professional additionally wasn’t up to date final 12 months, explaining why it’s lacking on that product. The seventh era iPad is working on an older chip (possible for value), and the iPad mini hasn’t been up to date since earlier than the iPhone 11 was launched.

I hope that as we get to December of 2020, Apple may have Wi-Fi 6 throughout your entire product line. Just a few weeks again, I reviewed the brand new AmpliFi Alien router. One among its key options is Wi-Fi 6 assist. Linksys additionally has up to date its Velop system to assist Wi-Fi 6 as effectively. Even when it’s not going to convey large pace upgrades (Wi-Fi 6 is about effectivity and capability), it’s nonetheless one thing I need to see throughout the lineup.

Continued enlargement of mouse assist in iPadOS

We received a primary take a look at mouse support in iPadOS 13 final fall, however it’s actually not prepared for the mainstream. It’s centered on accessibility use instances for now, however I hope that Apple continues pulling at strings relating to mouse assist in iPadOS.

For ergonomic causes, I favor to make use of a Mac when sitting at my desk over an iPad. I like the simplicity of the iPad, however I wrestle with utilizing a contact display for lengthy durations. Expanded mouse assist (drag and drop, and so on.) would go a good distance with placing the iPad on par with the Mac when it comes to usability. For heavy iPad customers, expanded mouse assist might be important in iPadOS 14.

Decrease value Apple TV “stick”

One of many ways in which Amazon and Roku have expanded their set-top field lineups is with low-cost HDMI sticks. Apple continues to promote $149+ containers. I’d like to see the 1080p field go away in favor of a $79 Apple TV stick with the identical {hardware}. As Apple continues to push Apple Arcade, it will be a straightforward solution to put gaming in each room. It could even be a lower-cost solution to deploy AirPlay 2 into classrooms with proper mobile device management support.

Though Apple has expanded Apple TV+ assist to Roku and Firesticks, I nonetheless favor tvOS over every other good TV answer. The times of promoting a $149 1080p field have come and gone, and it’s time for Apple to its product lineup for Apple TV. As firms look to make use of Apple TV for digital signage, its next-generation {hardware} might be much more vital.

Apple-branded HomeKit merchandise

We’ve seen stories of Apple altering its technique relating to HomeKit. I don’t anticipate Apple to supply each single sort of HomeKit system, however I’d like to see them fill in gaps the place different firms have stalled. One of many areas I’d like to see Apple put money into is doorbells. Ring is a well-liked alternative, and there have been some concerns about its privacy. With initiatives like HomeKit Secure Video, Apple is uniquely set as much as make a distinction in {hardware} high quality and client privateness.

Increased free tier on iCloud

iCloud is an important a part of having the most effective Apple expertise, and 5GB because the starter package deal isn’t helpful to only about anybody. It’s the identical plan that iCloud included without spending a dime when it launched in 2011. The iPhone digital camera has gotten dramatically higher, and now we have different alternatives to make use of iCloud for knowledge storage that we didn’t have then. Bumping it as much as 15GB would supply a dramatically higher consumer expertise for all of Apple’s clients. The pricing for the paid tiers is honest, although.

Enlargement of Magic Keyboard throughout laptop computer lineup

The issues with the Butterfly keyboard have been effectively documented, and it’s clear that Apple is altering to the Magic Keyboard with the discharge of the 16-inch MacBook Pro. I need to see the Magic Keyboard throughout the lineup in early 2020. I’m seeking to purchase 40 MacBook Airs in March, and I don’t need to be caught with the Butterfly mode for 3 years. Of all of the issues on my Apple wishlist for 2020, the enlargement of the Magic Keyboard is on the prime of the listing.

Wrap-up on Apple wishlist for 2020

I can’t wait to see what Apple releases in 2020. We must also see new iPad Pros, a brand new Apple Watch, new iMac Pro, and far more. Apple appears to be at a wholesome place with {hardware} high quality. What’s in your Apple wishlist for 2020? Do you’ve something in your iPhone, iPad, iOS, or macOS wishlist? Let me know beneath within the feedback.

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