Apple has unveiled a major redesign of its iPad operating system, iPadOS 26, introducing sweeping changes that promise to align the iPad experience more closely with that of a traditional Mac. This latest update has been touted by Apple as its “largest iPadOS overhaul ever,” and the significant improvements seem to justify that claim.
Among the update’s highlights is Apple’s Liquid Glass design refresh, which brings a sleek, modern aesthetic across the entire interface. Additionally, iPadOS 26 introduces a sophisticated new window management system designed to improve multitasking capabilities and productivity. Users will now be able to intuitively tile multiple windows, easily access and manage open applications, and integrate seamlessly with Apple’s Stage Manager feature. Stage Manager allows users to organize applications across multiple screens or into specific workflows, offering convenience and enhancing efficiency.
In another move likely to please professionals and students, Apple has significantly upgraded file management capabilities. The Files app now includes comprehensive folder management similar to macOS, allowing users to pin folders directly to the Dock and set default apps to open specific file types automatically. The familiar Preview app—popular on Macs for editing and annotating PDFs—also makes its debut on the iPad, greatly enhancing workflow for document-centric tasks.
Additionally, the update brings several refinements aimed at creative professionals. The iPad can now handle export and rendering tasks, like high-quality video exports from Final Cut Pro, directly in the background without interrupting active workflows. Audio and video recording experiences have improved significantly as well; users can now choose custom audio and video inputs within apps, select voice isolation modes, and pair their devices with Apple’s professional-grade earbuds to produce studio-quality recordings.
Enhanced communication features round out the major update, as iPadOS 26 incorporates Apple Intelligence into core applications such as FaceTime, Messages, and Phone. Users will benefit from Live Translation, a real-time feature that delivers automatic translations during conversations while preserving original voice tones, making cross-language interactions smoother and more natural.
Finally, podcasters and creators get a specialized boost with the Local Capture feature, which supports high-quality audio and video recording in video conferencing apps. This feature offers advanced capabilities like echo-cancellation and the option to edit and share high-caliber multimedia files directly from the conferencing interface. With this addition, Apple’s iPad seems positioned as a serious contender in the podcast and video conferencing creation space.
Overall, iPadOS 26 represents a decisive step by Apple to reimagine its tablet as a more professional, Mac-like computing device, expanding both its versatility and appeal.
