The Future of Tablets: Learning from the Surface Pro

Tables hold the promise of potentially replacing traditional laptop PCs in the future. However, a few factors currently hinder most tablets from realizing their full potential. Key among these obstacles is the need for better PC-like port selection.

Many users love the tablet form factor due to its flexibility. It provides a large screen that can accommodate productivity, creativity, and leisure activities all in a portable and lightweight design. Unlike traditional laptops, which are often constrained by built-in keyboards, tablets offer a unique, versatile experience that many wish to adopt as their main computing device.

However, two main challenges prevent tablets from becoming viable replacements for computers. First, there is the software issue. Tablets operate on mobile-centric operating systems like iPadOS and Android, which still often limit their multitasking abilities and functionality for complex tasks when compared to desktop environments like macOS or Windows.

Although these systems are improving, they haven’t yet reached the point where they can match the capabilities necessary for serious desktop computing. In contrast, Windows-based tablets do run a full desktop OS, making them better suited for productivity. Still, Windows 11 often fails to provide a seamless experience when used in a tablet mode due to its design.

The second challenge for tablets revolves around hardware, particularly when it comes to ports. Despite advancements in processing power, most tablets lack a comprehensive range of input/output ports needed for diverse computing tasks. Currently, most iPads and Android tablets only include a single USB-C port for charging, display connectivity, and data transfer. This limitation exists even in high-end models like the iPad Pro, which, although equipped with a fast Thunderbolt 4 port, still offers only that one connection point.

This approach significantly restricts how users can utilize their devices. For instance, charging an iPad while connecting to an external SSD or a wired peripheral becomes virtually impossible with just one port. Although USB hubs can provide additional connections, they are often seen as a temporary fix rather than a comprehensive solution.

In contrast, Microsoft's Surface Pro line has excelled in providing a rich array of ports generally found in traditional laptops, including multiple USB-C ports, a dedicated magnetic charging port, and legacy support like USB-A and microSD card slots. This thoughtful design allows users to engage with their tablets more like a regular PC.

Microsoft's strategy of treating its tablets as full-fledged PCs sets an important example for other manufacturers. To truly compete, future iPads should feature multiple Thunderbolt 4 ports alongside other charging options. Ideally, Samsung's Galaxy Tabs, Google's Pixel Tablet, and other high-profile models would also adopt this more flexible port approach.

As processing power continues to grow, restricting I/O capabilities seems counterproductive. Once tablet manufacturers embrace this need for expanded connectivity, the next step will involve optimizing software for larger screens. In just a few years, it may become commonplace for users to rely solely on tablets as versatile computing tools.

tablets, technology, Microsoft, iPad, SurfacePro