It seems that with the iOS 16 and iPadOS 16 updates, more and more exciting features and functions are becoming limited to newer models or more premium variations. We previously reported that the iPhone 8 and iPhone X cannot use all the features of iOS 16.
Recently, some features and functions on the iPadOS 16 are limited to the iPad with the M1 chip only. This feature is called Stage Manager. Stage Manager is a multi-tasking feature introduced, where many applications can be run simultaneously on the iPad. Not only that, if the iPad is connected to a monitor-it will be a second screen and both the monitor screen and the iPad can run various applications as well.
According to Craig Federighi, this feature has been tested on iPad models with a Bionic chip. But its performance is unsatisfactory and does not exceed the standards that Apple wants. On an iPad with an M1 chip, every app runs at great performance, is fast and highly responsive. In addition, Stage Manager is also said to require large and fast storage as well as support for a flexible monitor connection - which is limited to the Apple M1 chip only.
It is not yet clear whether Stage Manager will remain exclusive on the iPad with the M1 chip or will also be offered to other iPad models. In our tests, the iPad Air with iPadOS 16 didn’t have many changes and was a bit disappointed not to be able to test this new feature.