Apple Launches iPadOS 26: Stunning New Design and Desktop-Style Multitasking Come to iPad
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Apple Launches iPadOS 26: Stunning New Design and Desktop-Style Multitasking Come to iPad. |
At the 2025 Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), Apple officially introduced its latest tablet operating system — iPadOS 26. And it’s not just about a pretty new look — this update brings powerful features that turn the iPad into an even more serious productivity tool.
Liquid Glass: A Bold, Futuristic New Look
One of the most eye-catching changes in iPadOS 26 is the introduction of the Liquid Glass design, which Apple has also brought to iOS 26. This new semi-transparent interface adds a fluid, glass-like effect to the lock screen, home screen, and Control Center. It dynamically reacts to your device’s motion and background, giving the UI a fresh, modern vibe.
More Interactive, Dynamic App Icons
App icons on iPadOS 26 are also getting a major upgrade. They now adjust their color based on light or dark mode and feature smooth animations when launched. It’s a small touch, but it really brings the interface to life.
Desktop-Style Window Mode for Better Multitasking
Here’s the big one: window mode. Apple is finally bringing more flexible multitasking to the iPad. You can now open and resize multiple app windows — up to 10 at once — with four taking up the full screen and others floating on top.
They’ve even added close and minimize buttons like on macOS, making the whole experience feel more like using a desktop computer. It’s a game-changer for those using iPads for work or school.
Background Processing: No More Interruptions
With advanced background mode, you can now switch between apps without interrupting heavy tasks like video editing or 3D rendering. Your apps keep running in the background just like they would on a Mac.
Redesigned Files App for Faster Access
The Files app is getting a useful upgrade too. You’ll be able to organize folders more easily and even pin your most-used folders directly to the dock for quicker access. You can also customize how icons appear inside folders to suit your workflow.
More Cool Features to Explore:
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Choose your microphone input when recording audio on iPad.
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The new Preview app for PDFs supports Apple Pencil markup.
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Live Translation in communication apps allows real-time voice translation.
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Safari now has a customizable menu, similar to the Mac version.
Compatible Devices for iPadOS 26
Here’s a list of iPads that will support iPadOS 26:
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iPad Pro (M4, all 11-inch models)
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iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation and up)
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iPad Air (M2 and 3rd gen or newer)
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iPad (A16 chip, 8th gen and newer)
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iPad mini (A17 Pro and 5th gen or newer)
Bonus Announcements from WWDC 2025
In addition to iPadOS 26, Apple also revealed:
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macOS Tahoe 26 with new features and visuals
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watchOS 26 for Apple Watch users
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Apple Games, a new service for playing with friends on iOS
With iPadOS 26, Apple is blurring the lines between tablet and desktop. Whether you're into creative work, productivity, or multitasking, this update packs serious upgrades to level up your iPad experience.