MacPad: I created the hybrid Mac-iPad laptop and tablet that Apple won't make

Original Article ↗ Hacker News Discussion ↗

A DIY project that “decapitated” a MacBook and mounted an iPad as its detachable Sidecar display has reignited debate over why Apple won’t build a true Mac–iPad hybrid. Commenters argue that Apple’s hardware already makes such convergence feasible, but cite business incentives, iPadOS limitations, and the mixed track record of Windows 2‑in‑1 devices as reasons the company sticks to separate product lines. Many express a desire for an iPad that can run macOS or arbitrary code, seeing current iPads as powerful but constrained devices.

Project overview & immediate reactions

  • Many interpret the project as a decapitated MacBook using an iPad in Sidecar mode as a removable display.
  • Some find it a clever hack reminiscent of older Mac mods (e.g., Outbound, Modbook, Apple IIe-style setups).
  • Others see it as overkill or “rich people problems” — destroying an expensive laptop to serve as a Vision Pro accessory or iPad dock.
  • Several argue it’s less practical than just using a MacBook plus a separate iPad or a Mac mini with an iPad/monitor.

Desire for a true Mac–iPad hybrid

  • Strong interest in a single device that can run both macOS and iPadOS, or at least macOS VMs on iPad hardware.
  • People want:
    • An iPad that can run full macOS apps (Xcode, terminal, full Photoshop, etc.).
    • A Surface-like form factor that switches OS when docked/undocked.
  • Some suggest eventual convergence into a unified “AppleOS,” with iOS/iPadOS as the long-term direction.
  • Others emphasize they mainly want Mac capabilities on tablet hardware, not necessarily the Mac UI.

Critique of iPadOS and Apple’s segmentation

  • Many view iPadOS as underpowered relative to its M-series hardware: limited multitasking, filesystem, terminal, Xcode, and pro app parity.
  • Some see the iPad as “consumption-first” and heavily sandboxed; calls for a real Unix shell and ability to run arbitrary code.
  • There is skepticism that Apple will ship a true hybrid due to business incentives to sell separate Macs and iPads, and to preserve App Store control.
  • Environmental criticism appears: artificial segmentation is framed as increasing unnecessary device production.

Touchscreens, 2‑in‑1s, and ergonomics

  • Mixed views on touch laptops and 2‑in‑1s (Surface, Yoga, Chromebooks, Steam Deck):
    • Fans like having multiple input modes and pen use for notes/drawing.
    • Critics find touch on laptops tiring, imprecise, glossy, and often underused.
  • Windows 8/11 and hybrid UIs are cited as warnings about trying to merge touch-first and desktop-first paradigms.
  • Some argue the real goal is one device offering both modes cleanly, not a single compromised UI.