Given the recent updates to iOS 26 and macOS Tahoe, it’s no surprise that iPadOS 26 is receiving its own makeover. Apple has labeled this update as “the biggest iPadOS release ever,” and it seems like they’re not just speaking for the sake of it.
### A More Mac-Like Experience
The enhancements in iPadOS 26, including the Liquid Glass design refresh, a new window system, Apple Intelligence features, improved file management with Preview, and audio/video recording capabilities for creators, make the iPad feel more like a hybrid between an iPhone and a Mac, rather than just a larger iPhone.
### Work and School Productivity
Users who rely on their iPad for work or school will be pleased to know that the iPad will finally have its own version of folders, the Preview app, and more intuitive window displays, making it easier to use the iPad in a Mac-like manner. The Preview app simplifies editing and marking up PDFs, while the Files app now allows dragging folders to the Dock or setting a default app for specific file types.
### Enhanced Multitasking
The new window controls enable users to view all open windows at once and intuitively tile them for multitasking. These controls are also compatible with Stage Manager, allowing for organized windows and work across multiple screens.
### Apple Intelligence and Creator-Friendly Features
iPadOS 26 will be complemented by Apple Intelligence features, such as Live Translation in Phone, FaceTime, and Messages, offering auto-generated translations for conversations. Additionally, there are several creator-friendly features, including the ability to perform computationally intensive tasks in the background and customized audio/video inputs for apps and websites.
Podcasters, in particular, may find the Local capture feature intriguing. This feature enables users to produce and share audio and video recordings with echo cancellation of other participants’ audio, potentially making the iPad a strong contender in the podcasting realm.
