iPad power users have been eagerly awaiting significant software upgrades with iPadOS 18, especially given the advanced capabilities of the M4 iPad Pro. While this update doesn't bring major changes to multitasking or other core systems, it does introduce some powerful cross-platform features like Apple Intelligence and deep customization tools. The main iPad-centric features include a new Calculator app and redesigned tab bars.
However, one standout feature in the Files app addresses a major pain point for many users: the ability to keep folders and files permanently downloaded.
Solving a Persistent Problem
For years, the Files app has centered around an iCloud-first approach to file management. This system is beneficial for multi-platform computing, allowing users to access their files from any device and ensuring data safety even if a device fails. However, the drawback has been with file downloads. While users can manually download files, Apple has historically made decisions on which files to keep in local cache, often removing them without notice. This has led to situations where users, especially those without internet access, find their necessary files unavailable.
The New Solution
iPadOS 18 introduces a solution to this problem. Users can now long-press on a file or folder and select a new 'Keep Downloaded' option from the menu. This feature ensures that selected files and folders remain permanently downloaded on the device, never being automatically removed by the system.
This change is not just limited to iPadOS 18 but is also available on iPhone with iOS 18. For casual iPad users, this might not make a significant impact. However, for those who rely on their iPads for work and productivity, this unannounced feature can drastically improve their workflow and provide peace of mind knowing their files are always accessible, regardless of network connection.
This seemingly small but crucial update enhances the reliability of the iPad for power users, ensuring their important files are always at hand. It's surprising that Apple did not highlight this feature during the WWDC presentation, given its potential impact on productivity.
This improvement underscores why iPadOS 18, despite not having major multitasking updates, is still a significant release for those who depend on their iPads for serious work.
