A creative modder known as Shu Chan has successfully combined the power of an M4 iPad Pro with an M1 MacBook Air, resulting in a unique hybrid device named the "iPadBook." This innovative creation allows for seamless switching between macOS and iPadOS, offering users the combined functionality of a robust notebook and a portable tablet. The core of the project involved integrating the iPad Pro as the MacBook Air's display, attached magnetically. Chan ingeniously utilized the original MacBook Air chassis and keyboard, developing a custom mounting system called "MagBaka." This system uses a precise arrangement of 12 magnets to securely attach the tablet without adding bulk, maintaining a sleek design.
When connected, the iPad Pro serves as the primary display for the MacBook Air through a wired Sidecar connection, enabling macOS to be controlled with touch and Apple Pencil. This integration facilitates demanding tasks like video editing in Final Cut Pro or image manipulation in Photoshop. When detached, the iPad Pro functions independently for activities such as gaming, streaming, or general use. The project required significant engineering, including adapting a hinge from a damaged MacBook Air for precise alignment with the notebook's body, despite a slight width difference. Structural components were created using a high-precision Bambu Lab H2D 3D printer, capable of producing large, intricate parts in a single print. After more than ten iterations of 3D printing, Chan refined the design to optimize the typing angle, ensure adequate ventilation for the MacBook's base, and achieve a near-production aesthetic. The design also includes a slight elevation of the base for improved heat dissipation.
Developing the MagBaka system presented a considerable engineering challenge, necessitating carefully calibrated magnets to ensure the iPad's stability without hindering its usability. While the physical connection for Sidecar is currently exposed, Chan intends to integrate concealed wiring in a future version for a cleaner appearance. Further planned enhancements include a specialized mount to correct the width disparity between the iPad Pro and the MacBook Air's frame, aiming for visual symmetry without compromising functionality. This project challenges Apple's established separation of its Mac and iPad product lines, which traditionally cater to distinct user needs, in contrast to hybrid offerings from competitors like Microsoft's Surface line. Shu Chan's "iPadBook" presents a compelling fusion of these experiences, highlighting the potential of creativity and technical skill to deliver a device many Apple enthusiasts have desired. This pioneering fusion aligns with broader industry trends toward hybrid computing, where devices increasingly merge distinct functionalities, reflecting a similar drive to unify user experiences as seen in the evolution of hybrid computing integrating cloud and edge technologies.