Apple has officially announced that its forthcoming iPadOS 26 update will be the most significant release in iPad’s history, boasting features that could fundamentally alter the utility of the device.
Unlike previous iterations, this update introduces a range of multitasking tools, a revamped windowing system, and a Preview app for enhanced productivity.
Historically, users have struggled with the limitations of multitasking on the iPad, where only two windows could be opened simultaneously, creating a cumbersome experience.
For example, juggling between writing an email and checking a calendar often requires constant toggling, leading to inefficiency and frustration.
With the new features in iPadOS 26, those challenges appear to be a thing of the past.
Users will now be able to view all open windows simultaneously and arrange them effortlessly, making multitasking a far more streamlined activity.
This updated windowing system is designed to work seamlessly with Stage Manager, allowing users to create tailored environments for their work.
As part of this overhaul, Apple will phase out its older multitasking features, such as Split View and Slide Over, in favor of this more intuitive windowing system.
Another impressive feature of iPadOS 26 is the introduction of the Preview app, enabling users to edit and view PDFs natively.
This app not only supports basic functionalities like AutoFill but is also compatible with the Apple Pencil, elevating its usability.
In an effort to mimic the functionality found on Mac products, iPad applications will incorporate a menu bar, simplifying navigation and allowing users to locate specific commands more easily.
Moreover, developers will now have the ability to customize the menu bar in their own applications, increasing overall flexibility.
For those who organize files using folders, iPadOS 26 will provide the option to pin frequently-used folders directly to the dock, offering quick access without the need to navigate through the cumbersome Files app.
Beyond these enhancements, iPadOS 26 will leverage the robust capabilities of Apple’s silicon chips to perform high-intensity tasks in the background.
This means users can, for instance, export a video while continuing to work on other projects, significantly improving efficiency for content creators, podcasters, and video editors.
A notable addition is the ability to select specific audio inputs for different applications or websites, which expands the options for handling audio more effectively in varied scenarios.
Furthermore, a welcome local capture feature will allow users to record video calls from any conferencing app, giving them easy access to audio and video files after the calls conclude.
While the iPad has traditionally not rivaled MacBooks in terms of overall functionality, this update could bridge that gap, particularly for those who navigate between multiple events or locations.
Imagine a scenario where someone is attending numerous conferences each year and must carry a heavy laptop for reporting on breaking news.
In such cases, the lightweight design of an iPad could offer an advantageous alternative, making it far easier to manage workloads while alleviating back strain from lugging around heavy equipment.
In summary, Apple’s iPadOS 26 is poised to be a groundbreaking update that redefines how users interact with their iPads.
With features designed to enhance productivity and multitasking, this update may just convince skeptics that the iPad is a serious contender in the realm of professional tools.
image source from：https://techcrunch.com/2025/06/12/your-ipad-is-your-new-computer/
