Apple’s latest iPad operating system, iPadOS 18, aims to enhance the user experience by addressing a long-standing issue related to emoji accessibility in iPhone apps running on iPads.
Previously, using iPhone apps on iPads posed challenges, particularly when accessing emojis while connected to an external keyboard. This issue is being tackled with a small yet significant update in iPadOS 18.
“When you’re using an iPad connected to an external keyboard, the virtual keyboard disappears from the screen to make room for the content on the screen,” explained Apple in its recent update. “Now, when you press Control + Command + Space, the iPhone app also shows the emoji picker.”
This improvement is particularly beneficial for users navigating apps like Threads and Instagram, which lack specific versions optimized for iPadOS, thus relying on iPhone interfaces. Prior to this update, users often faced obstacles in accessing emojis, requiring workarounds such as detaching the Magic Keyboard or using alternative methods for emoji input.
iPadOS 18, currently available in developer beta, introduces a range of features aligning with iOS 18 enhancements. These include customizable Home Screen options, a redesigned Control Center, and the addition of a new Calculator app integrated with Apple Intelligence.
The public beta for iPadOS 18 is expected to launch later this month, with the official release slated for fall, promising further refinements to streamline functionality across Apple’s ecosystem.
