Details for iOS 13 revealed, big focus on iPad

Apple has yet to introduce iOS 12, yet details for iOS 13 are already coming out. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple is planning a series of iPad-focused upgrades for iOS 13, including a brand new Files app.

In a series of Tweets on Friday, Gurman shared some details about the upcoming software, codenamed Yukon, which Apple isn’t expected to unveil for at least another year.

Here’s what Gurman had to say:

Somewhat. iOS 13 “Yukon” will have a big iPad-focused feature upgrade as well, including an updated Files app. some other things in the works are tabs in apps like in MacOS, same app side by side, Apple Pencil stuff. The home screen redesign is iPad focused.
— Mark Gurman (@markgurman) May 4, 2018

That last bit is a big deal. Apple was reportedly working on a home screen redesign for iOS 12, but decided to push it back to next year.

Many of the biggest updates in iOS 13 will be exclusive to the iPad, though the iPhone will receive some love as well. One feature will allow users to open multiple tabs in a single app, much like you can do in macOS. Gurman also says iPad users will be able to use the same app side by side, while big Pencil improvements are also said to be in the works.

The release of iOS 11 actually included a lot of features specific to the iPad, so clearly Apple is putting a lot of focus in the tablet space. Apple called iOS 11 a “monumental leap for iPad,” introducing a new Dock, improved multitasking, drag and drop, and more.

Gurman doesn’t mention iOS 12, though he previously said the software will have fewer marquee features as Apple focuses on improving stability. However, Apple is said to be introducing support for universal apps in iOS 12, though a recent report claims the feature might not be what people are expecting.

Apple is expected to unveil iOS 12 in June.