iOS 26 might have stolen the headlines at WWDC this week, but iPadOS 26 is arguably a more meaningful update. On top of many of the changes coming to iPhone later this year – including its controversial new look – iPad adds some seriously powerful new features that serious users have been waiting a long time for.
Here’s your guide to the biggest changes coming soon with iPadOS 26.
A new name
In case you missed it – Apple transitioned directly from iPadOS 18 to iPadOS 26, matching the naming system across its platforms to simplify version tracking.
Liquid Glass Redesign
Just like iOS, iPadOS introduces Liquid Glass, a stunning translucent material that dynamically interacts with light and user movements. It’s looking like a bit of an accessibility disaster, but it sure looks impressive!
Advanced Windowing System
iPad finally gets even more Mac-like. You can now manage multiple apps more fluidly with the intuitive new windowing system. Resize, position, tile, and easily switch between app windows, enhancing multitasking to desktop-like functionality, especially when paired with external displays.
Exposé for iPad
Another long-time Mac feature that’s finally popped up on iPad. You can quickly view all open windows simultaneously in Exposé mode, helping you effortlessly switch between tasks.
Enhanced Files App
Manage your documents more efficiently with the revamped Files app, featuring resizable columns, collapsible folders, and customizable folder icons. You can also drag folders directly into the Dock for instant access from anywhere.
Preview App for iPad
The familiar Preview app from macOS arrives on iPad, enabling seamless viewing, editing, and markup of PDFs and images using Apple Pencil or touch. The inclusion of AutoFill makes this a game changer for filling in forms and documents.
Background Task Management
Perform heavy computational tasks in the background, supported by Live Activities that keep you updated on progress. This feature is ideal for creatives handling rendering, exporting, or compiling complex projects.
Menu Bar
Swipe down from the top of the display to access app-specific commands in a new desktop-like menu bar. Developers can now tailor this menu to make it easier to find and access features in their apps.
Local Capture for Video Calls
Capture high-quality audio and video recordings directly from video conferencing apps. Echo cancellation ensures clarity, keeping your voice crisp and professional during calls and recordings.
Journal Comes to iPad
Keep multiple personal journals enriched with handwriting, photos, videos, and location tagging. A new map view organizes entries geographically, providing an intuitive way to reflect and revisit memories.
Apple Games and Game Overlay
The new Games app provides a unified gaming hub, including updates, social features, and friend challenges. Game Overlay lets you easily manage game settings, connect with friends, and view live updates without leaving your game.
Full Phone App Integration
Make and receive calls directly on your iPad with the dedicated Phone app, featuring Call Screening and Hold Assist. This ensures seamless integration and consistent call experiences across your Apple devices.
New Reed Pen Tool
Artists and note-takers benefit from the new reed pen in the markup tool palette, offering authentic calligraphy effects and precise control with Apple Pencil.
3D Graphing in Calculator
Explore mathematics visually with new 3D graphing capabilities, perfect for students and educators looking to visualize complex equations and data in three dimensions.
Enhanced Accessibility Features
Accessibility Reader provides a streamlined, systemwide reading experience tailored for visual impairments, and the new Braille Access improves interaction with connected braille displays. Share Accessibility Settings allows temporary use of personalized settings on other devices.