We've had previous rumors suggesting Apple is working on split-screen multitasking capabilities for the iPad, and hints of the feature are buried within iOS 8, but thus far multitasking has not made its way into the hands of customers. In a post covering information on future iPad upgrades, 9to5Mac confirms split-screen multitasking is still in the works and on schedule to be released as part of iOS 9.
Split-screen multitasking will display two apps side-by-side on the iPad's screen or two views of the same app, allowing users to see multiple documents in Pages at the same time, for example. As was first discovered in code buried within iOS 8, apps will be able to be arranged in multiple views, covering 1/2, 1/3, and 2/3 of the screen in the latest iteration.
9to5Mac warns that though the split-screen multitasking feature is slated for inclusion in iOS 9, it could be removed before the update's debut at the Worldwide Developers Conference if it is not ready in time as it was originally developed for the upcoming "iPad Pro." 9to5Mac previously said the multi-tasking feature would be included in iOS 8.
Apple is also said to be working on a highly anticipated feature that customers have requested for years -- multi-user login support. This will allow multiple users to have unique profiles on a single iPad, with individual access to apps and documents. Multi-user support will not be ready when iOS 9 launches in the fall, but it could be released later in 2015 alongside the iPad Pro or in 2016.
Both split-screen multitasking and multi-user login support are features that will be added to Apple's rumored larger-screened 12-inch iPad Pro, which may also include features like a USB-C port, a stylus, and a pressure-sensitive Force Touch display. The tablet, internally numbered "J98" and "J99" to represent Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi + Cellular models, will launch in late 2015, according to the latest rumors. Apple is said to be working to finish software and source hardware components for the device.
Sources have confirmed that Apple is testing jumbo-sized iPads internally codenamed "J98″ and "J99," which are apparently larger versions of the Wi-Fi-only and Wi-Fi + Cellular iPad Air 2, save for additional speaker holes.
Given the large size of the iPad Pro's display, some apps may be redesigned to accommodate the larger screen real estate available on the 12-inch tablet, with Apple rumored to be working on new designs for Siri and Notification Center. Features tailored to the iPad Pro could work in the same way as features tailored to the iPhone 6 Plus, which has a unique layout in landscape mode to account for a larger display size.
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So iPad Pro will have:
* 12.9-inch screen
* Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi + Cellular versions
* USB port
* Split-screen multitasking
* Multi-user login
* Keyboard attachment option
So the question is, how much? 16GB iPad Air 2 starts at $500, but with "Pro" moniker, I am guessing the entry level iPad Pro will be equipped with 64GB. So minimum starting price will likely be $700 for Wi-Fi 64GB iPad Pro, going up to $1030 for 256GB Wi-Fi + Cellular configuration.
That is awfully close to 12-inch MacBook ($1300 with Wi-Fi and 256GB, in contrast to my estimate of $900 for 256GB Wi-Fi version), especially if one adds keyboard attachment smart cover/case (which will easily cost at least $100).
If they're going that high, I'd just get a Surface Pro and then never have to deal with all the inherent limitations placed on the device by Apple.
Better late than never, I guess.
Only Apple can do this kind of innovation.
"For iPad Air 2 or newer"
How about "For iPad Air 3 or newer" :p muahahahahahahahahahahaha...