Apple’s iPadOS 26 is not just an update—it’s a redefinition of what the iPad can be. With a bold new design, full-fledged windowing, and powerful productivity tools, this release finally bridges the gap between tablet and desktop. Announced at WWDC 2025 and expected to launch publicly in September 2025, iPadOS 26 is the most significant leap in iPad history.
Apple Intelligence: Smarter, More Context-Aware
Apple Intelligence is now deeply integrated into iPadOS 26, offering:
- Live Translation: Real-time translation in Messages, FaceTime, and Phone
- Genmoji & Image Playground: Create custom emojis and images using prompts
- Smart Shortcuts: Automate tasks with AI-powered actions like summarizing text or generating images
- Contextual Suggestions: Intelligent prompts based on app usage and screen content
⚠️ Requires iPads with M1 or A17 Pro chips and newer.
Windowing System: True Multitasking Comes to iPad
The new windowing system is a game-changer:
- Resize, move, and layer app windows freely—just like macOS
- Familiar “traffic light” controls for close, minimize, and full screen
- Exposé View: Swipe up to see all open windows
- Menu Bar: Swipe down to access app-specific tools
- Dock Enhancements: Add folders, keep dock visible, and drag files across apps
This replaces Split View and Slide Over, while Stage Manager remains for grouped multitasking.
🎨Liquid Glass Design: A Visual Overhaul
The new Liquid Glass design language brings:
- Translucent UI elements that reflect and refract surroundings
- 3D lock screen effects that respond to device movement
- Custom icon colors and clear-look themes
- Refreshed app interfaces across Mail, Safari, Music, and more
It’s expressive, dynamic, and unified across Apple platforms.
📁 Files & Productivity: Desktop-Class Tools
iPadOS 26 supercharges productivity with:
- Preview App: Edit PDFs and images with Apple Pencil support
- Files App Enhancements:
- Resizable columns
- Folder customization
- Default app selection for file types
- Background Tasks: Run heavy processes like video exports while multitasking
- Live Activities: Track progress of background tasks at the top of the screen
📞 Phone App on iPad: Yes, Really
The new Phone app enables:
- Wi-Fi calling via iPhone
- Call Screening, Hold Assist, and Live Voicemail
- Spam detection and approval tools for unknown numbers
🎮 New Apps & Features
- Journal App: Now on iPad with Apple Pencil support
- Apple Games Hub: Centralized access to installed games, leaderboards, and events
- Audio Tools: Local Capture, Voice Isolation, and Input Picker for creators
🛡️ Privacy & Accessibility
- Expanded App Tracking Transparency
- On-device processing for sensitive data
- Voice Control & AssistiveTouch improvements
- Braille support and motion sickness reduction tools
📱 Supported Devices
| Supported iPads | Dropped Support |
|---|---|
| iPad Pro (M4, 11″, 12.9″ 3rd gen+) | iPad (7th generation) |
| iPad Air (3rd gen and newer) | Devices with A10 chip |
| iPad (8th gen and newer) | |
| iPad mini (5th gen and newer) |
Apple Intelligence features require M1 or A17 Pro chips.
🗓️ Release Timeline
- Developer Beta 1: June 9, 2025
- Public Beta: July 2025
- Final Release: September 2025 (alongside iOS 26 and macOS 26)
🧾 Final Thoughts
iPadOS 26 is the update iPad users have been waiting for. It finally delivers the multitasking power, design elegance, and intelligent features that elevate the iPad from a consumption device to a full-fledged productivity powerhouse. Whether you’re a creative, student, or professional, this update makes the iPad feel more like a Mac—without losing its tablet soul.
