contador web Skip to content

Reader article: using iPad as my primary computer

per Zendrael


There are those who say it is not possible, there are those who guarantee that the best thing in the world, there are those who want to use it and those who have never even tried it. The fact that it is not enough to just change the operating system, you must also change the way of thinking when adopting a new system like iOS to perform the main tasks of your workflow.

I have been a software developer (programmer) since 2001 and left Windows in 2003, migrating to GNU / Linux and BSD systems; in 2009 I used Mac OS X on a Hackintosh so I bought my first 11 ″ MacBook Air in 2010. The first iPad, in its first version, I don't remember exactly when it was purchased. Over time I started to believe that the iPad could be my perfect computer if I had the necessary apps and, after going through other MacBooks, iPads and a Chromebook, today I have been carrying out my activities on a 12.9 ″ iPad Pro and using a Mac 2012 mini as a server build and data.

Browsing the internet we can find reports from several people, in various professions that, since the launch of the iPad Pro, have intensified the use of iOS in their daily tasks and have gradually stopped using macOS to the point where some are living 100 % using their iDevices. Among some are the accounts of Federico Viticci, Fraser Speirs, Ben Brooks and others that can be found on social networks and blogs. It is worth mentioning that they did not necessarily begin to think of iOS as their main operating system after the launch of the iPad Pro, but rather from the moment when the iPad and iOS themselves allowed the best execution of tasks pertinent to their routine. I will not defend here that everyone should make this kind of change, I will just demonstrate that, in my case and that of some other people, this is possible and has brought benefits, it may not be your case.

The concept that worries most people and the greatest amount of complaints from those who try to make this transition in relation to iOS does not have a file manager. For those who are used to organizing files and folders in a structured way, they end up frustrated with the organization of files by applications and prevent them from progressing with their work. Changing the way of thinking is fundamental at this point, as it is perfectly possible to open files in different apps and transfer from one to the other, either using some iOS area as an exchange area (photos, for example), or by using a storage in cloud or by using the button to share what you’re doing. Think of a software that you use a lot today and remember how it was when you learned to use it, the difficulty until you get used to it, or if you migrated to the current one after time using another one Your mind must learn how iOS works so that its flow of work is not hindered, or a new flow must be created.

If the reader already works with full-screen programs on macOS and switches between them through workspaces using gestures on the trackpad or keyboard shortcuts (I gradually reduced the number of windows open at the same time on the same desktop), be comfortable when using iOS. I also got used to invoking Spotlight from the keyboard and finding what I needed, and the shortcuts work the same way on iOS 10.

With each new app focused on the professional use of iOS, the transition has become simpler. A good example is the Workflow app, which works as an Automator for iOS, completely graphic and full of recipes for different actions. It makes the repetitive work of some tasks a lot worth checking out for those who don't know.

Specifically for my area, any plain text editor is sufficient to edit the codes of desktop programs, apps, web and games. I have been using Coda because it is more stable on iOS 10 than the Koder I used previously. It allows me to directly access files via FTP, SFTP, SSH or WebDAV. When there is a need to view or test something that cannot be accessed through the browser, I use any remote connection such as VNC or Chrome Remote Desktop to view Mac mini with macOS Sierra. In the eventual need to compile codes or create new projects, access only by SSH using the Serverauditor app and execute the necessary commands. I also keep a copy of the projects I'm working on on Dropbox and Google Drive for security reasons, and for access when I can't connect to the server. It is possible, depending on the type of project, to carry out all the programming directly on the iPad, but my workflow was already as I do today and I didn't need to change it, I just changed some tools.

Some people have asked me about the gorilla arm, which refers to the tiredness of raising your arms to touch the iPad screen during its use, and I can say that it is more a matter of custom. It is also barely noticeable to anyone who is used to using keyboard shortcuts. What most bothers the position of the screen depending on the chair / table that is used and requires some adjustments (point for the Surface Pro!).

In general, iOS has become my main operating system and iPad Pro, my replacement for the MacBook. Yes, there is a lot to progress in several aspects but we cannot expect iOS to become a macOS, its proposal is not the same and its operation requires the user who wants to use it in a professional manner that adapts to get the best use .

I will list some points in favor and against this substitution for those who are thinking about migrating and have some doubts emphasizing the work of the developer and the common user:

PRS

  • If it is a determining factor for you, the weight of the iPad Pro combined with the Smart Keyboard is optimal for carrying in your backpack or even in a folder of compatible size.
  • The optimal screen resolution combined with the feature Night Shift allows you to work for hours without straining your eyes, size also helps by making a large area available for codes or using another app alongside with Split View.
  • Speed ​​and fluidity when accessing and switching between applications is excellent and I have not noticed slowness in any moment until now.
  • The great Smart Keyboard, responds quickly and after you get used to it and the low profile of the keys, it becomes much easier for typing tasks.
  • The battery, in continuous use programming, has lasted two days, and I put it to recharge when it is at 10% I did not mark precisely in hours its duration, but we know that this can vary depending on several factors.
  • If you enjoy listening to music while working, the sound is actually very good and clear. Be careful not to disturb the neighbors!
  • The security of iOS is indisputable.

CONS

  • Not being able to adjust the inclination of the screen can sometimes be annoying. There are other third-party keyboard options on the market that can improve this, but I haven't tested any.
  • Do not ask for files on pendrive or other external media for co-workers or customers, as there is no way (that I know of) to access them in any app even if it has an adapter (if anyone knows, you can suggest it in the comments).
  • For those who are not used to using cloud services and do not work with multiplatform languages, it can be difficult to try to use your preferred IDE only via remote access. If using a RAD tool to create interfaces in your projects is mandatory, it will be even worse.
  • If you do not have an internet connection at times, for example, you do not even have access to the 3G / 4G of your cell phone to share with the iPad, some tasks can become bad to perform (some, because, again, it depends on the your workflow).

· · ·

It is difficult to clarify all the points that may motivate someone to decide on making this type of change or test, there are many professions whose work would be impossible to perform on iOS and many that are proving possible. It is up to the reader to determine whether he could adapt his routine using primarily an iPad or not.

Thank you guys for the space and I hope that these words are interesting for the readers. See you!