The iPad

I have tried various iPads over the past year, from the standard model to the Air and both sizes of the Pro. Ultimately, I chose the iPad mini, which I find perfectly sized for my needs.

While the bezels on the mini were appealing to me, I wouldn't mind it adopting the more modern design seen in the Air and Pro. This is a rumor I've heard, and if it materializes, it could persuade me to upgrade to the next generation.

Additionally, I'd love to see a version of the Magic Keyboard available for the iPad mini and standard iPad, as its typing experience is far superior to the Smart Keyboard Folio or any other options available for these budget-friendly models.

However, my primary wish for the iPad is for Apple to transition all models to USB-C charging. While I don't mind Lightning connectors, I believe that sticking with it for the iPad mini and standard iPad will become limiting. Accessory manufacturers will likely favor USB-C, given its compatibility with various devices, including MacBooks and other computers.

The iPhone

I consider the iPad mini nearly perfect. Other than a need for a larger battery, I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

Well… maybe for a folding iPhone. But that's likely inevitable, so it’s not on my current wishlist.

My main desire for the iPhone 13 mini is for Apple to actually produce it. Despite the 12 mini's less-than-expected sales, I hope the company continues to offer a compact option. I want it to be just as capable as the iPhone 13, without sacrificing quality—especially regarding the camera. I promise to keep purchasing every iPhone mini as long as its camera matches the other models.

Also, could the iPhone 13 mini feature a matte finish like the 12 Pro? The glass back on the 12 mini attracts fingerprints, which defeats the purpose of MagSafe.

Speaking of MagSafe, I’ve mentioned before how much I love this feature in the iPhone 12 series, and I want to see Apple expand its use. We have cases, wallets, and car mounts, with rumors of a battery pack, but I believe Apple could innovate even further with MagSafe, making it a standout feature of the iPhone. I don’t have specific ideas, but I'm excited to see what Apple has planned for it. I hope it doesn't end up like Force Touch or the initial MagSafe.

iOS and iPadOS

While we're discussing iPhones and iPads, let's shift to software.

iOS 14 has been my favorite version so far with its app library and other features, but it still has room for improvement.

For instance, the app library could benefit from customization options. Apple’s categories can feel arbitrary, making it hard to locate apps. I’d appreciate the ability to create custom folders to organize my apps.

iOS could also enhance multitasking. While this wouldn’t be ideal on my 12 mini, I almost opted for the 12 Pro Max, and split-screen functionality would be a welcome addition on a larger screen.

On the iPadOS front, I wish Apple had included the app library in iPadOS 14. I'm not sure why it was omitted, but I would like to see it added in future updates. While I may critique Apple's categories, I prefer them over a cluttered home screen.

A significant wish for iPadOS relates to the M1 MacBooks. Since macOS now runs on Apple chips and can support iPad apps, I envision an iPad that runs macOS or at least has the capacity to execute macOS applications within iPadOS. I'm hopeful this will be a feature in the near future, as Apple has just begun to explore this capability.

The MacBook

To be honest, the M1 MacBook has fulfilled almost all my desires for the MacBook lineup. My experience with Macs has been limited; my first was the Intel Core i3 MacBook Air from 2020, but in that brief time, the M1 has addressed many of my concerns. It offers faster speeds, enhanced processing power, and, most importantly, operates quietly without overheating.

However, looking to the future, there are still a few enhancements I'd love to see. Primarily, I think it’s time to modernize the design.

The MacBook Air's design is reliable but feels somewhat dated. While I appreciate its lightweight nature, I think it could benefit from some updates, such as thinner bezels. Compared to competitors like Dell's XPS line and the Surface Laptop 3, the MacBook's thicker bezels look outdated.

Moreover, the MacBook Air could greatly benefit from a touchscreen, especially now that iPad apps are supported on the Mac. A touchscreen would allow users to fully utilize these new capabilities. And while we're at it, Apple Pencil support would also be a fantastic addition.

Above all, I hope to see more form factors for the Mac, or even a convergence of the iPad and Mac lineups. A Mac with a detachable keyboard or one that converts into a tablet could be intriguing—perhaps such a device could switch between macOS and iPadOS.

The Peripherals

Now, let's discuss peripherals.

Starting with the iPad, I think two accessories could use an update: the Magic Keyboard case and the Apple Pencil.

I would love for Apple to create a Magic Keyboard for the next iPad mini. Regardless, the next version of the iPad's Magic Keyboard should be made with better materials. The current keyboard is among the best I've used, but the rubbery material around the keys attracts too much dust and feels susceptible to damage. I would like Apple to consider a more premium feel, akin to Microsoft’s Alcantara keyboards for their Surface products.

Additionally, incorporating a Touch ID button would greatly enhance the Keyboard's usability. While this may not concern users with iPad Pros, those using it with the iPad Air find it cumbersome to reach for the power button to access Touch ID. Since the Magic Keyboard charges the iPad via a passthrough connector, I’m sure Apple could develop a way to integrate a fingerprint scanner into the keyboard.

Regarding the Apple Pencil, I believe it needs an eraser. While the double-tap feature on the Pencil 2 allows you to switch to an eraser, I appreciate the simplicity of flipping my Surface Pen to access the eraser, just like a traditional pencil. This change could free up the double-tap function for other uses and would feel more intuitive.

Next, the AirPods. I adore both the standard AirPods and the AirPods Pro, though I don't have specific suggestions for the former. However, I do think the Pro could use one improvement: better-fitting ear tips. Apple should consider offering foam tips or different materials, as the current options frequently slip out of my ears.

Although I haven’t tested the AirPods Max, I wish Apple would create a more affordable version. That’s really all I ask; I'd be eager to try them if the price were more reasonable.

Lastly, the Apple Watch. My primary wish is for improved battery life; it would be great if it could last a couple of days before needing a recharge.

Furthermore, I would be intrigued to see different form factors. A round Apple Watch design could be an exciting development.

Wishful Thinking

There you have it—my wishlist for the next wave of Apple products. I can’t predict which of these ideas will become reality or remain just dreams, but I eagerly anticipate what Apple has in store for their upcoming devices.

Even if none of my wishes come true, I won’t be disappointed, as the Apple products I currently use are the best they’ve ever been.

But you can’t fault me for dreaming.