Slack is giving its iPad app a much-needed upgrade that will bring many of the same features as the web version, the company announced. The app is getting a new two-column layout that displays a list of available channels and messages on the left and their content on the right. The left sidebar is being updated, and the app is getting better support for accessibility features like Apple's VoiceOver screen reader.
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None of these are particularly revolutionary features, but they're welcome additions to an iPad app that can sometimes feel more like a giant iPhone. Slack is marketing the update as catering to the needs of emerging hybrid workplaces, which will hopefully make it easier to keep up with workplace conversations while on the go.
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The revamped sidebar in the Slack iPad app sounds particularly useful. The sections are collapsible if you want to hide groups of channels. Channel names can be long-tapped to access a context menu, and usernames will now include avatars in direct messages, making them easier to spot at a glance. The way sections are set up should now sync with the desktop version of Slack, making it easier to keep everything neat and tidy.
Finally, there are accessibility improvements. Support for Apple's VoiceOver screen reader has been improved, as well as Dynamic Type font scaling to make text easier to read.
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Slack says the new iPad version will be available for download today, with further improvements – such as support for keyboard shortcuts and “additional support for accessories” – coming later in the year.
Source of information: theverge.com
