Apple’s iPadOS 26 brings major upgrades with a redesigned Liquid Glass interface, a flexible new windowing system, and powerful productivity tools like a dedicated Preview app for PDFs and a revamped Files app.
This update also introduces Apple Intelligence improvements with Live Translation and creative tools like Genmoji, plus new background task capabilities and the Phone app arriving on iPad for the first time. Together, these features push the iPad further as a versatile device for work, creativity, and communication.
“iPadOS 26 is our biggest iPadOS release ever, with powerful features that take the experience to the next level and transform what users can do on iPad,” said Craig Federighi, Apple’s senior vice president of Software Engineering. “With a beautiful new design, an entirely new powerful and intuitive windowing system, even more features powered by Apple Intelligence, huge improvements to working with files, and new capabilities for creatives to power their workflows, iPadOS 26 makes our most versatile device even more capable.”
Liquid Glass
iPadOS 26 introduces “Liquid Glass,” a translucent design language that brings a fresh look to the iPad. This design reflects and refracts its surroundings, reacting dynamically to user input. It offers a more expressive and delightful experience, with updated app icons that come to life in light or dark appearances, colorful new light and dark tints, and an elegant new clear look. The Lock Screen and Control Center also benefit from this new design, providing a more cohesive and immersive user interface.
Improved windowing system
The new windowing system in iPadOS 26 allows users to fluidly resize app windows, place them exactly where they want, and open even more windows at once. This powerful and intuitive system helps users work with, control, organize, and switch between app windows—all while maintaining the immediacy and simplicity that iPad users expect. Familiar window controls allow users to seamlessly close, minimize, resize, or tile windows, making multitasking more efficient and user-friendly.
Apple Intelligence integration
Apple Intelligence becomes even more capable and integrated across iPadOS 26, with new features that help users communicate, express themselves, and get things done. These include Live Translation, new ways to create with Genmoji and Image Playground, and intelligent actions with Shortcuts. These enhancements make the iPad a more powerful tool for productivity and creativity.
Supercharged Files app
The Files app has been enhanced to offer new ways to organize files and customize folders. Users can now add folders to the dock, providing convenient access to downloads, documents, and more from anywhere. This update makes file management more efficient and accessible, streamlining workflows for users.
Preview app for PDF wiewing and editing
A new Preview app comes to iPad, giving users a dedicated app to view and edit PDFs. With powerful features like Apple Pencil Markup and AutoFill built in, users can annotate documents and fill out forms directly on their iPad, eliminating the need for third-party applications.
Background Tasks and audio input selection
iPadOS 26 introduces Background Tasks, allowing apps to run more intensive processes without interrupting the user’s experience. Additionally, users can now choose different microphones for each app, as well as individual websites, providing greater control over audio input and enhancing the overall user experience.
Journal app and Game Overlay
The Journal app, previously exclusive to iPhone, is now available on iPad, offering users a new way to document their thoughts and experiences. Additionally, a new Game Overlay feature provides a more seamless gaming experience, allowing users to access controls and information without interrupting gameplay.
Phone app on iPad
For the first time, the Phone app is available on iPad, allowing users to make and receive calls directly from their tablet. This integration makes the iPad a more versatile communication device, bridging the gap between mobile and desktop experiences.
Availability and compatibility
iPadOS 26 will be available as a free update for the following iPad models:
- iPad Pro (M4)
- iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation and later)
- iPad Pro 11-inch (1st generation and later)
- iPad Air (M2 and later)
- iPad Air (3rd generation and later)
- iPad (A16)
- iPad (8th generation and later)
- iPad mini (A17 Pro)
- iPad mini (5th generation and later)
Developers can access the beta soon after WWDC, with a public beta expected in July. The full release should land this fall, likely around mid-September.
