select-ipad-simulator

Skill: select-ipad-simulator

Input

• test_cases — list of test cases (used to determine best device size and orientation)

Step 1: List simulators

axe list-simulators

Filter results: keep iPad only — exclude iPhone, Apple Watch, Apple TV, Apple Vision Pro. Prefer simulators that are already booted.

Step 2: Recommend device

Test content	Recommended device
General regression	Latest iPad Pro (largest canvas)
Compact layout, sidebars	iPad mini (smallest iPad, 744pt width)
Split-view / multitasking	iPad Pro 12.9" or iPad Pro 11" — these support all multitasking modes
Navigation, popovers	Any iPad — test both portrait and landscape

Step 3: iPad-specific considerations

Before confirming the simulator, inform the user about relevant iPad behaviors the tests may trigger:

• Split-view: If any test case involves navigating between sections, the app may enter split-view mode on iPad. Mention if tests should be run in full-screen mode (Settings > Home Screen & Multitasking > Allow Multiple Apps off) to isolate behavior.
• Slide-over: Elements accessible via drag may not appear in the AX tree if a slide-over panel is open. Check for unexpected AX elements.
• Keyboard shortcuts: iPad supports hardware keyboard shortcuts — ensure test steps don't assume software keyboard is always visible.
• Popover vs modal: On iPad, sheets often present as popovers anchored to a button, not full-screen modals. ui_contains assertions should match the popover's AX label, not a navigation title.

Step 4: Present recommendation

State your reasoning clearly, e.g.:

"For split-view testing I recommend iPad Pro 12.9" (UDID: XXXX, iOS 17.5) — it supports all three multitasking modes. Want to use this, or test on iPad mini as well for compact layout coverage?"

Wait for the user to confirm or choose before returning the UDID.

Output

• udid — confirmed simulator UDID (or list of UDIDs)
• device_name — human-readable name + iOS version, e.g. "iPad Pro 12.9-inch (iOS 17.5)"