iPadOS 26: Liquid Glass visuals, new Windowing system, Files App overhaul and more

Apple unveiled iPadOS 26, the most significant update to the iPad operating system to date, with a bold new design, enhanced multitasking, and deeper Apple Intelligence.

iPadOS 26 arriving this fall

iPad becomes more Mac-like?

It is the brand's new design language that brings translucent, glass-like aesthetics inspired by VisionOS. It includes greater flexibility in customizing Home Screen, Lock Screen, and Control Screen.

Enhanced Multitasking coming to iPadOS 26

The Liquid Glass design aligns iPadOS 26 with iOS 26, macOS 26, and other Apple operating systems, creating a unified look across devices. The consistency simplifies navigation for users switching between iPhone, iPad, and Mac.

iPadOS 26 windowing on external displays

One of the most transformative additions to iPadOS 26 is the new windowing system, which brings Mac-like multitasking to the iPad while retaining its touch-first simplicity. This system bridges the gap between tablet and laptop workflows, making the iPad a more viable laptop replacement. Key features include Resizable and Movable Windows, Expose and Stage Manager 2.0, and Menu Bar Integration.

iPadOS 26's new Menu bar

When connected to the Magic Keyboard, iPadOS 26 introduces a macOS-style Menu bar that appears automatically. While the new Stage Manager 2.0 integrates seamlessly with the new windowing system, which allows users to group windows on the iPad or an external display.

Enhanced Files App

The Files app receives massive changes, including enhanced organization and the ability to add Folders in the Dock. iPadOS 16 will come with a new list view featuring collapsible folders and customizable folder options, allowing for improved file management. Users can set default apps for specific file types, streamlining workflows.

For the first time, the Preview app from macOS comes to iPadOS. The dedicated app allows users to view and edit PDFs with powerful features, including Apple Pencil Markup and AutoFill Support.

Intensive tasks can now run in the background

Apple has also enhanced the Creative Tools on the iPad, such as Background Tasks, Audio Input Selection, Audio Local Capture, and Apple Pencil enhancement, such as support for Arabic script when using the virtual reed calligraphy pen.

Other features include the new Games App, Precise Pointer, and 3D graphics.

List of iPads supported by iPadOS 26:

iPad Pro with M4 chip

iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd Generation or newer)

iPad Pro 11-inch (1st Generation or newer)

iPad Air with M2 chip or later

iPad Air (3rd Generation or newer)

iPad with A16 chip

iPad (8th generation or newer)

iPad mini with A17 Pro chip

iPad mini (5th generation or newer)

Availability

On June 9, 2025, developers can access the iPadOS 26 beta through the Apple Developer Program. The Public beta will be launching next month via the Apple Beta Software Program. 

The update will be available as a free download this fall 2025. 

What do you guys think?

Source: Apple