iPadOS 26: Redefining the iPad Experience with Over 50 New Features

Apple’s iPadOS 26 introduces a transformative update that brings the iPad closer to the Mac experience, blending powerful new features with a stunning redesign. With over 50 new additions, this update redefines what an iPad can do, enhancing productivity, customization, and user interaction. Below is a detailed exploration of the standout features in iPadOS 26.

Revamped Windowing System

iPadOS 26 introduces a Mac-like windowing system, offering unprecedented flexibility for multitasking. Users can now:

• Freely Move Windows: Drag windows anywhere on the screen, including off-screen, by holding the top of a window.

• Snap Windows with Gestures: Swipe a window to snap it to the left or right side of the screen, enabling side-by-side multitasking.

• Adjust Window Sizes: Resize windows by dragging the divider between them, allowing for customizable layouts.

• Persistent Windows: Open windows remain accessible even when returning to the home screen, making it easy to switch back to active apps.

This system is particularly impactful when using an external monitor, providing a seamless and desktop-like experience.

Enhanced Cursor and Keyboard Support

Apple has refined the cursor experience in iPadOS 26, especially for users with a Magic Keyboard or mouse:

• Mac-Like Cursor: The cursor now resembles the precise, arrow-shaped pointer found on macOS, replacing the less intuitive circular cursor.

• Window Controls: Familiar macOS window controls (close, minimize, and full-screen) are now available on the iPad, accessible in the top-left corner of apps.

• Menu Bar Integration: Swiping down slightly reveals a macOS-style menu bar in supported apps like Safari and Files, offering options such as creating new windows, adjusting views, or accessing history.

Third-party developers can also integrate this menu bar, ensuring a consistent experience across apps.

Files App Upgrades

The Files app receives significant enhancements, making file management more intuitive and customizable:

• Resizable Notifications: Users can tap the three-dot menu to filter files by type, size, or other criteria, with the ability to resize and reorder these filters.

• Customizable Folders: Right-click or long-press a folder to add emojis or change its color via tags, making it easier to visually organize files.

• Dock Integration: Frequently used folders can be pinned to the dock for quick access, and folders can be sorted by file type or displayed in fan or grid views.

These changes streamline workflows and make the Files app feel more like Finder on macOS.

Stunning New Design with Liquid Glass

iPadOS 26 introduces a visually striking “liquid glass” design across the user interface:

• Transparent Icons: A new “clear” icon style, alongside default and dark options, offers transparency that refracts light, creating a dynamic and elegant look.

• Customizable Icons: Tinted icons adapt to the wallpaper, enhancing visual cohesion.

• Redesigned Lock Screen: Users can adjust the size of the time display, opting for a larger or smaller font to suit their preference.

This redesign permeates every app, delivering a cohesive and visually appealing experience.

New and Updated Apps

iPadOS 26 introduces several new apps and enhances existing ones, bringing iPad functionality closer to macOS and iOS:

Preview App

The Preview app, a staple on macOS, debuts on iPad, offering robust PDF management.

• Markup and Annotations: Add text, signatures, or drawings directly to PDFs.

• Open With Options: Files can now be opened in specific apps (e.g., Preview, Books, Pixelmator, or Procreate) via a new “Open With” feature in the Files app.

Journal App

The Journal app, optimized for iPad, leverages the Apple Pencil for handwritten entries.

• Handwritten Notes: Create journal entries with handwritten notes, ideal for creative expression.

• Rich Media Support: Add images, photos, locations, voice messages, or mood logs.

• Cross-Device Integration: Syncs seamlessly with the iPhone app, incorporating Apple Watch and workout data for a holistic journaling experience.

Apple Games

A new Apple Games app centralizes gaming on the iPad.

• Game Hub: Browse installed games, view friends’ activity, and explore Apple Arcade titles.

• Play Together: Invite friends to play online, fostering social gaming experiences.

• Library Management: View all downloaded or purchased games in a clean, unified interface.

Phone App

The Phone app, previously exclusive to iPhone, replaces FaceTime on iPad.

• Unified Communication: Make calls, FaceTime, or access contact posters and call history from a single app.

• Trackpad Support: Use the trackpad to initiate calls directly.

iMessage Enhancements

iMessage gains new customization options:

• Dynamic Backgrounds: Choose from animated backgrounds (e.g., sky or desert themes) or generate custom ones using Apple Intelligence’s Image Playground.

• Interactive Design: Backgrounds shift and move, creating a visually engaging chat experience.

Apple Music

Apple Music introduces

• Pinned Playlists/Albums: Pin favorite playlists or albums for quick access in the Library tab.

• Automix: Seamlessly blends the end of one song into the next, creating a DJ-like experience.

Notes App

The Notes app adds a “red pen” tool, mimicking a calligraphy pen with dynamic darkening effects, ideal for sketching or annotating.

FaceTime

FaceTime features a cleaner interface with contact posters displayed on the left, improving usability.

Background Downloads

iPadOS 26 supports background download tasks, displayed as live activities:

• Multitasking Downloads: Download files (e.g., via WeTransfer) while working in other apps.

• Progress Monitoring: Tap the download icon to check progress or manage multiple downloads.

This feature is a game-changer for video editors and users handling large file transfers.

Zugu Case: The Perfect iPad Companion

To complement iPadOS 26, consider upgrading your iPad case with Zugu, a premium accessory designed for durability and versatility:

• Multi-Angle Magnetic Kickstand: Locks into place for various use cases, such as watching videos, typing, or drawing.

• Military-Grade Protection: Drop-tested with reinforced corners, with Zugu offering to cover repair costs if your iPad is damaged.

• Apple Pencil Storage: Includes a dedicated slot with wireless charging and an elastic backup to secure the pencil.

• Premium Materials: Sleek and minimal design, built to last.

• Upcoming Launches: Zugu’s 15th anniversary brings a 360 case for portrait/landscape multitasking, a durable kids’ case, and a limited-edition color with a matching bumper.

Visit Zugu’s website for more details on their 2025 product launches.

Conclusion

iPadOS 26 is a landmark update that bridges the gap between iPad and Mac, offering a revamped windowing system, enhanced file management, and a gorgeous liquid glass design. With new apps like Preview, Journal, Apple Games, and Phone, plus powerful multitasking and customization options, iPadOS 26 redefines the iPad as a versatile, productivity-driven device. Whether you’re a creative professional, gamer, or casual user, this update delivers something for everyone.