iPadOS 18 Simplifies Emoji Selection and Insertion for iPhone Apps
Apple's latest update to iPadOS is set to make life a whole lot easier for emoji enthusiasts. With iPadOS 18, users can now effortlessly add their favorite emojis in iPhone apps running on iPads, addressing a long-standing inconvenience.
The Emoji Dilemma: Solved
For years, iPad users have grappled with a frustrating limitation when using iPhone apps on their tablets. The lack of a virtual keyboard, especially when using an external keyboard, made accessing emojis a cumbersome task. But those days are soon to be behind us.
iPadOS 18 introduces a game-changing feature: the ability to open an emoji selection menu using the Control + Command + Space shortcut, even in iPhone apps that haven't been optimized for iPad. This simple yet effective solution eliminates the need for workarounds like:
- Disabling the keyboard
- Copying emojis from other apps
- Switching between apps just to add a smiley face
More Than Just Emojis
While the emoji enhancement is stealing the spotlight, iPadOS 18 comes packed with a plethora of exciting features:
- New Home screen customization options: Personalize your iPad like never before
- Revamped Control Center: Quick access to your most-used settings
- Brand new Calculator app: Finally, a native calculator for iPad users
- Apple Intelligence: Coming with the iPadOS 18.1 update, this feature promises to make your iPad even smarter
Compatibility: Is Your iPad Ready?
The update will be available for a wide range of iPad models, ensuring that many users can enjoy these new features. Compatible devices include:
- iPad 7 and newer versions
- iPad Air 3 and newer versions
- iPad mini 5 and newer versions
- iPad Pro (2018 and newer)
The Bigger Picture
This update is part of Apple's ongoing efforts to improve the user experience across its ecosystem. By addressing the emoji issue, Apple is taking another step towards seamless integration between iPhone and iPad apps.
As TechCrunch reported earlier this year, Apple has been focusing on refining its operating systems to provide a more cohesive experience across devices. This emoji update in iPadOS 18 aligns perfectly with that strategy.
Looking Ahead
With iPadOS 18, Apple continues to blur the lines between its mobile and tablet operating systems. As 9to5Mac notes in their comprehensive guide, this update brings iPadOS closer to iOS in terms of features and functionality.
The introduction of Apple Intelligence in the 18.1 update is particularly intriguing. While details are still scarce, it promises to add a layer of smart functionality to iPads, potentially revolutionizing how we interact with our tablets.
As we eagerly await the official release of iPadOS 18, one thing is clear: iPad users are in for a treat. Whether you're an emoji aficionado or simply looking for a more streamlined iPad experience, this update has something for everyone. Stay tuned for more details and the official release date!
Source: 9to5Mac

Jim's passion for Apple products ignited in 2007 when Steve Jobs introduced the first iPhone. This was a canon event in his life. Noticing a lack of iPad-focused content that is easy to understand even for “tech-noob”, he decided to create Tabletmonkeys in 2011.
Jim continues to share his expertise and passion for tablets, helping his audience as much as he can with his motto “One Swipe at a Time!”