iPad Pro gets one step closer to gaming laptops with this update

(Image credit: Future)

Gaming on the iPad Pro has been ... well, a mixed bag. Sure, Apple tree's high-end tablet has a big, bright screen and a super-fast A12Z processor, but input methods accept still mostly focused on touch, so information technology's non exactly replaced anybody's laptop. However, new features coming in iPadOS 14 look to brand the iPad more of a gamer-friendly device.

One of iPadOS fourteen'southward hidden features that Apple didn't brag well-nigh on stage at WWDC 2020 is that mouse and keyboard support are finally coming to the iPad. Information technology's both an overdue addition that could make Apple Arcade games a bit more capable and help Apple'south overall renewed push for more gaming on its devices.

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Apple revealed the keyboard and mouse support in a video made for developers, showing how to add those new features to their apps. At WWDC, Apple also revealed that it's calculation support for the Xbox Elite Wireless Series 2 controller and the Xbox Adaptive Controller.

As The Verge notes, current keyboard and mouse support on iPad is "actually lackluster," and requires actress clicks and piece of work, for a non-native-feeling experience.

I'k surprised Apple hadn't added Adaptive Controller back up earlier, as the company has long championed accessibility features that open up their devices to more than users.

iOS xiv, iPadOS xiv and tvOS are also gaining pro-level features like controller button remapping (in example you want to reverse the buttons you approve and abolish with), and controllers with haptic feedback and rumbling. Apple's devices volition too back up lighting, touchpads and paddles. Those first ii are most tied to taking reward of Sony'due south DualShock controller features, while the third is more meant for Xbox controllers.

Apple's besides building in back up for battery level, and then your system can better tell you when you need to recharge. Motion control support, some other gimme for iOS and iPadOS games that have long used the internal motion sensors, is also coming.

With these features, as well as 3D sound back up for AirPods, Apple tree seems to be aware of all the changes in the gaming landscape. All it needs now is the rumored Apple Telly 2020 box that's expected to be faster and (hopefully) ready for the adjacent generation of gaming. Certain, Apple Arcade has some not bad and nice-looking games, just with the revolutionary PS5 and Xbox Serial Ten on the horizon, the Apple Television set needs to exist propped up with more power.

Henry is a senior editor at Tom'south Guide covering streaming media, laptops and all things Apple, reviewing devices and services for the past half-dozen-plus years. Prior to joining Tom's Guide, he reviewed software and hardware for TechRadar Pro, and interviewed artists for Patek Philippe International Mag. He's too covered the wild earth of professional wrestling for Cageside Seats, interviewing athletes and other manufacture veterans.