Maximizing Your iPad: 10 Apps to Ditch for a Better Experience
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With the launch of iPad OS 13, Safari has transformed into an incredibly effective browser. The new features allow it to display websites in desktop mode, and with the latest iPad OS 14 update, it’s pushing the iPad closer to functioning like a full desktop machine.
Applications significantly enhance our devices' capabilities. However, as web technology evolves, many websites are now rivaling native apps, sometimes offering superior functionality.
iPad OS 13 elevates the browsing experience to desktop standards across all websites, enabling services like Google Docs to operate seamlessly just as they would on a traditional PC.
Why Choose Safari
Safari stands out as an exceptional browser for the iPad for several reasons:
- Built-in webpage translation
- Website privacy reports
- Download manager
- Password monitoring
- Favicon support
- Dark mode compatibility
- Impressive performance
- Battery efficiency
- Keyboard shortcuts
- Robust security and privacy features
While there are many additional features worth noting, what truly makes me appreciate Safari is the consistent user experience across all Apple devices. The “It just works” philosophy from Apple is evident here.
The Case for Safari
In today’s world, many websites, particularly social media platforms, are tailored to perform well on both desktop and mobile browsers. Unfortunately, their apps often feel outdated or buggy.
Before iPad OS was introduced, Safari served as a useful extension of various applications. Now, we can confidently navigate numerous websites without the hassle of dealing with mobile layouts on a 10" display.
This realization led me to reduce the number of apps on my iPad and opt for their browser versions instead. They perform better than ever.
Apps Worth Removing
Your need for specific apps may differ. As a researcher who occasionally browses social media, I find the following apps perform better in Safari than as native applications:
LinkedIn
The LinkedIn app for iPad leaves much to be desired. Its interface resembles the iPhone version, and the constant notifications disrupt the user experience. Surprisingly, the website runs far more smoothly on Safari.
Medium
As a loyal Medium user, I must admit that their app isn't ideal. It seems to have been designed primarily for desktop users, leading to a subpar experience on the iPad. The app often loads content in an internal browser, which feels unoptimized for everyday users.
Product Hunt
I discovered Product Hunt while searching for productivity apps. Although their website is fantastic, the native app lacks polish. My experience with their iPad app was disappointing, prompting me to rely on the website instead.
Twitter
Twitter’s iPad app feels like a scaled-up version of its mobile app. Despite useful features, the layout has too much wasted space around tweets, leading to an unsatisfactory experience. I’ll be exploring alternative Twitter clients in future articles.
Unsplash
Unsplash is my go-to source for high-quality images. Despite their excellent design on the website, their iPad app falls short, lacking an iPad-optimized visual aesthetic.
Google Translate
The Google Translate app suffers from poor design despite its utility. The layout feels cramped and lacks adequate white space. While the website offers a better experience, using it requires internet access.
TED
Despite a redesign in 2020, the TED app still struggles on the iPad. Navigation feels clunky, making the website a more appealing option for accessing TED Talks.
Amazon
If you prefer receiving purchase notifications via email or text, the Amazon website is a better choice than the native app, which offers a similar experience.
Goodreads
Goodreads is a valuable service, but its design leaves much to be desired. The website is better suited for desktop users, and a complete redesign is needed for a better experience.
Behance
While Behance was initially well-designed for various Apple devices, its iPad app still requires significant improvements. The website, however, offers a superior user experience.
Considerations for Your Own Usage
Keep in mind that my preferences may not align with yours. I prefer minimalism and wish to avoid unnecessary notifications.
For those who rely on apps like Amazon and need notifications, installing the app might be beneficial. Personally, I receive notifications via email, which works for me.
With limited storage on my device, I prioritize removing unnecessary apps to maximize available space.
Thank you for reading. If you’re aware of any other apps that have a poor design for the iPad, please share your thoughts, and I’ll include them in future discussions.
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