Apple just unveiled iPadOS 26 at WWDC, and it’s the biggest iPad update ever. From a redesigned interface to smarter AI features and a serious upgrade to multitasking, iPadOS 26 pushes the iPad closer to being a full-blown computer (well, not quite yet)—while keeping the simplicity users love, according to the company.
“iPadOS 26 is our biggest iPadOS release ever, with powerful features that take the experience to the next level and transform what users can do on iPad,” said Craig Federighi, Apple’s senior vice president of Software Engineering, in a statement. “With a beautiful new design, an entirely new powerful and intuitive windowing system, even more features powered by Apple Intelligence, huge improvements to working with files, and new capabilities for creatives to power their workflows, iPadOS 26 makes our most versatile device even more capable.”
Here’s a breakdown of what’s new:
Fresh New Design with “Liquid Glass”
- Dynamic, translucent material gives the UI a slick, glassy look.
- Lock Screen and Control Center now feel more alive.
- App icons adapt to light and dark modes with new tint options.
- Mail, Safari, Music, and TV apps all get modern UI upgrades.
Real Windowing Comes to iPad (we’re starting to feel like a Mac)
- Resize and move app windows freely.
- Snap them into place with a flick, thanks to new tiling tools.
- Exposé view lets you see all open windows at once.
- Works seamlessly with Stage Manager and external displays.
- New customizable menu bar accessible via swipe or mouse hover.
A menu bar is here! Check it out below:
Apple Intelligence Gets Smarter
- Live Translation in FaceTime, Phone, and Messages.
- Genmoji creation now lets you tweak emoji attributes and expressions.
- Image Playground taps into ChatGPT for custom image generation.
- Shortcuts now include built-in AI tools like summarizing and image creation.
Files App Grows Up
- New List View with resizable columns and collapsible folders.
- Customize folders with color, emoji, and icons.
- Drag folders right into the Dock for quick access.
- Choose default apps for opening specific file types.
Preview App Comes to iPad
- Edit, mark up, and fill PDFs using Apple Pencil.
- Create blank pages to sketch or write on the fly.
- Works directly with Files app for seamless access.
Better Workflow and Pro Features
- Background Tasks let apps run heavy tasks in the background with full visibility via Live Activities.
- Choose different mics for each app or website.
- Voice Isolation filters out background noise.
- New Local Capture records audio/video from calls, ideal for content creators.
New Built-in Apps
- Journal arrives on iPad: jot down memories, photos, drawings, or audio entries — even track moods and places.
- Apple Games App offers a new hub for managing games and social features.
- Game Overlay adds quick settings and friend invites during play.
Messages, Phone, and More
- Messages now has custom Backgrounds, Polls, and redesigned group chat tools.
- Phone app arrives on iPad with Hold Assist and Call Screening.
- Apple Cash can now be requested or sent in group chats (US only).
Extra Features You’ll Want to Try
- Reed Pen Tool: classic calligraphy feel in Notes, Freeform, and more.
- 3D Graphing in Calculator with Math Notes.
- Markdown export for Notes.
- Accessibility Reader and Braille Access improve usability for all.
When Can You Try It?
- Available now for developers.
- Public beta launches next month.
Compatible iPads
iPadOS 26 works on:
- iPad Pro: M4, 12.9″ (3rd gen+), 11″ (1st gen+)
- iPad Air: M2 and 3rd gen+
- iPad: A16 model, 8th gen+
- iPad mini: A17 Pro, 5th gen+
Apple Intelligence (AI Features)
- iPads with M1 or newer
- iPad mini with A17 Pro
- iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max, iPhone 16 series
- Macs with M1 or newer
External Display Support
Requires:
🌍 AI Language Support (Initial)
English, French, German, Italian, Portuguese (Brazil), Spanish, Japanese, Korean, Chinese (Simplified)
More coming late 2025.
