The new iPad OS26 gives iPad users a Mac-like experience with new features such as deeper integration of Apple Intelligence.
At WWDC 2025, Apple previewed the new iPadOS 26, which aims to boost your tablet’s productivity. “iPadOS 26 has retained the simplicity of iPad, but introduces an entirely new, powerful and intuitive window system with new features that allow users to control, organize and switch between apps”, according to Apple. iPad users can also expect deeper integration with Apple Intelligence and improvements to apps such as Files and Preview.
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Window system
With iPadOS 26, Apple introduces a new system for managing app windows. Users can adjust window sizes, position them freely, and open multiple windows simultaneously. The new Exposé feature displays all open windows in a single overview, and with window tiles, users can easily organize windows.
Additionally, a revamped menu bar makes it easier to find app commands and functions. By swiping up or placing the cursor at the top of the screen, the menu appears. Developers can now also customize the menu bar for their apps.
Apple Intelligence
Apple Intelligence is more deeply integrated into iPadOS 26. Live Translation enables instant translations to be seen and heard during phone calls, FaceTime calls, or in Messages. Users can generate and customize visual content based on descriptions or their own photos with Genmoji and Image Playground.
The Files app gets a customized list view, collapsible folders, and new options to visually personalize folders. Users can drag folders to the dock for quick access and set default apps for file types.
The Preview app is also coming to iPad. It allows users to edit PDFs, annotate and fill out forms with Apple Pencil. With local recordings, users can record audio and video directly in apps like Zoom, including echo suppression and source selection per app or website.
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Finally, iPadOS 26 adds new apps and features, such as Journal for keeping notes with media and mood states, and a dedicated Phone app. Messages also gets expansions like polls, conversation backgrounds, and Apple Cash integration.
iPadOS 26 will be released later this year. The update is available for recent iPad models with Apple Silicon.