With the release of iPadOS 26, Apple has made significant strides in bringing the iPad closer to the Mac with an array of new productivity and multitasking features. This update marks a turning point in the iPad’s development, enhancing its capabilities and aligning its functionality with that of a Mac.
One of the most exciting advancements is the ability for users to freely resize app windows, allowing for multiple instances of the same application to be open simultaneously. Windows can now be arranged into halves, thirds, or quarters with intuitive tiling gestures.
Additionally, the familiar closed, minimized, and maximized buttons are now standard on each window, enabling apps to remember their size and position upon reopening. Users can also take advantage of external displays, as app windows retain their layout on secondary screens.
iPadOS 26 introduces a swipe-up Exposé gesture that reveals all open windows, reminiscent of the Mission Control feature on Macs. A new menu bar can be accessed through swipe or cursor hover, providing quick access to app commands, with the option for third-party apps to incorporate their own commands.
The cursor has also been upgraded to function more like a traditional pointer, enhancing precision in interactions. The Files app has seen improvements, now allowing resizable columns and customizable folders with colors and icons.
Users can also assign default apps for different file types and easily access folders from the Dock. Additional notable features include the introduction of the Preview app for editing PDFs and images, background tasks for uninterrupted usage, customizable audio input and output options, and the ability to export notes as Markdown files.
This update deepens the integration between the iPad and Mac, prompting discussions about the device’s new capabilities. Overall, with these changes, the line distinguishing the iPad from the Mac has become increasingly blurred, inviting users to consider how these enhancements might elevate their experience.
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