Despite being worn, iMâm users ingeniously repurpose iPads into 'one-of-a-kind' screens.

In a fast-paced and demanding work environment, efficient and convenient data input is crucial. For those who frequently have to input large amounts of data, a good quality keyboard is essential. At this point, users' curiosity and experimentation come into play, leading to the formation of unique ideas.

The Idea Formation Process Combining iMâm and iPad

Based on daily input needs, Federico Viticci - the founder of Mac Stories - realized that while a separate mouse pad was unnecessary, a keyboard was indispensable when inputting large amounts of content. This raised the need to explore optimal solutions for data input, especially when working with devices like the Vision Pro.

So his creativity led to a solution: Not only creating a 'headless' Mac, but also finding a way to combine and merge them into a single device. In the creative process, Viticci inadvertently invented the 'MacPad' - a fusion of the keyboard (referred to as iMâm by Vietnamese users) and the iPad, which he shared the entire process on Mac Stories after succeeding.

With this hybrid system, Federico Viticci may have created a perfect and unique computer - capable of serving as a keyboard and trackpad for the Vision Pro, a Mac with a detachable screen, and an iPad with a detachable keyboard trackpad.

First Steps in Invention

Federico Viticci is very passionate and unafraid to explore, he decided to embark on realizing his inspirational initiative. Indeed, the first step in this process was not necessarily removing the screen from the MacBook, as most people would imagine. First, Viticci needed to ensure he could control the Mac without the need for a screen.

When thinking about using his MacBook Air, Viticci quickly identified a potential challenge.

He addressed this by disabling FileVault encryption to utilize VNC access at the macOS login screen, even after rebooting.

Next, he wanted to ensure he could use Sidecar – Apple's tool allowing the iPad to function as a Mac screen – even without the main display.

Finally, after much preparation, the moment of truth arrived, and Viticci eagerly powered up his MacBook Air.

To easily connect the iPad and MacBook, he had to create an adjustable screen stand.

Fixedly Connect the iPad to the iMâm

The user's initial idea was to create a floating computer with a personalized screen based on needs, using the Rolling Square Edge Pro Core stand, which Federico Viticci had previously used to attach a puck-style speaker to the iPad Pro.

Next, he attached three magnetic stands to the bottom of the MacBook Air, allowing the iPad to adjust to a wider viewing angle than the MacBook Air normally permits.

Executing his next idea, he crafted a custom magnetic case for the iPad Pro to attach to the Rolling Square magnet on the MacBook Air. He used an ESR case for the iPad Pro and cut out the back cover and Apple Pencil holder.

The magnetic attachment technology makes switching between the MacBook and iPad swift, flexible, and seamless, providing adjustable viewing angles for a more comfortable user experience, even when lying down or working at an extended viewing distance.

While sleeker and more practical solutions may exist, with the available resources and capabilities, Federico Viticci has created an efficient and user-friendly modular system, allowing him to enjoy two operating systems on the same device.

Common Queries

Thought this design had reached the threshold of perfection, however, during usage, MacPad encountered some issues not easy to resolve. Firstly, Sidecar always needs Internet to function, Federico Viticci tackled this by using a portable Wi-Fi router named GL-iNet Beryl AX3000. It's a small device, powered by USB-C, capable of generating a Wi-Fi 6, 5 GHz network by directly connecting to the iPhone's mobile data via USB.

When users want to work with their MacPad without Wi-Fi, they just need to start the AX3000, wait for its Wi-Fi network to become available, and then wait for the iPad and Mac to automatically connect to it. Once connected, wireless Sidecar can operate without any hiccups. Users have tested this feature in their cars for the past few weeks and found it works perfectly.

Next is the issue of unlocking the device during usage. As the MacBook Air screen has been detached, the sensor to determine if the machine is closed or not no longer functions. This doesn't pose a big issue except for one major drawback: the user's MacBook will unlock automatically, even when stowed, such as while driving.

To address this issue, users decided to disable the auto-unlock feature with the Apple Watch and instead rely solely on Touch ID for login. Since turning off the Apple Watch authentication feature, users haven't encountered any accidental logins.

Avoid DIY at home unless you're an expert

While it may seem intriguing, MacPad comes with quite a few economic and risk-related issues. Firstly, equipping an iPad to use alongside a MacBook isn't always an economically viable solution due to the high cost of both products. Users need to decide whether the expense is justified by the benefits they receive.

Secondly, this 'MacPad' enhancement offers an enticing experience for users as they can directly interact with the screen through gestures and touches, and even detach the device to use as a tablet whenever desired. However, this needs careful consideration as the device can easily be dropped or bumped, leading to damage.

Lastly, although MacPad may open up new possibilities for users, such DIY modifications are not accepted by Apple for warranty or liability. This is a significant risk that anyone considering this path needs to carefully weigh.

Continuing to explore ways to optimize work and technology use in daily life, the question of Apple's capability to produce a product similar to MacPad becomes very intriguing.

Conclusion

Apple has demonstrated its ability to create innovative and advanced products. From the first iPhone, iPad, MacBook, to the Apple Watch and beyond, the company has continuously brought unique designs and innovative technology. With a team of world-class engineers and designers, Apple certainly has the potential to create a product similar to MacPad.

However, it's also worth noting that having the capability doesn't necessarily mean it will happen. Even if Apple can produce a product like MacPad, the company also needs to consider various other factors. This includes market acceptance, production costs, and whether the product aligns with Apple's long-term technology direction and plans.

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