macOS is coming to iPad after jailbreak

A group of hackers has successfully installed a version of macOS on an iPad using a jailbreak, allowing users to run the desktop operating system on a tablet device. The project, called “Virtual Mac on iPad,” enables the use of macOS versions ranging from Monterey (12) to Tahoe (26), including the upcoming beta release of Golden Gate (27). This achievement comes despite Apple’s continued restriction of touchscreens on its computers and the limited support for macOS on iPad devices. The hack requires specific hardware and software conditions. It works exclusively on three models of iPad: the iPad Pro with M1 or M2 chips and the iPad Air with M1 chip. These devices must run iPadOS 14 through 16.3.1, which are older versions that still allow for jailbreaking. Users running newer versions of iPadOS, such as 16.4 or later, will find the installation impossible due to Apple's removal of hypervisor support in the XNU kernel, a critical component for enabling macOS on non-Apple computers. As of now, there is no indication that future iPadOS updates will include this functionality. To install the hacked macOS, users must follow a multi-step process. First, they need to perform a jailbreak on their device. Then, they set up a repository in Sileo, a package manager commonly used in jailbroken iOS devices. Finally, they can install Virtual Mac on iPad. The installation allows users to choose from a wide range of macOS versions, offering flexibility for both personal and professional use. The project supports features such as Xcode and Logic Pro in trial mode, making it suitable for developers and musicians. One of the notable aspects of the hack is its ability to enable touchscreen interaction. Users can tap with one finger to click and use two fingers to access context menus. A virtual keyboard is also available, along with a movable HUD overlay that enhances usability. Despite these capabilities, the system does not require a physical Magic Keyboard, making it more accessible than traditional macOS setups. Performance reports indicate that the setup runs smoothly for standard tasks, though high-end applications may experience limitations. The developers behind Virtual Mac on iPad have noted that performance is “excellent” for typical use cases. However, they caution that the system may not be optimized for resource-intensive operations, especially on lower-end hardware. While the hack represents a significant technical achievement, it remains unofficial and unsupported by Apple. The company has not shown interest in incorporating similar features into its official products, instead focusing on developing new devices such as the MacBook Ultra, which is rumored to feature a touchscreen. This suggests that Apple may eventually introduce a hybrid approach, combining the strengths of macOS and iPadOS, rather than relying on third-party hacks. For now, the Virtual Mac on iPad project continues to attract attention among tech enthusiasts and developers. With ongoing efforts to expand support to newer iPadOS versions, the community remains hopeful that the project could evolve further. Until then, the hack serves as a testament to the ingenuity of independent developers in pushing the boundaries of existing technology.