For years, Apple danced around the question: Can the iPad replace your computer? With the release of iPadOS 26, the answer is no longer vague — it’s a confident yes, but with a twist. The iPad isn’t becoming a Mac. It’s becoming its own kind of computer — one that blends the freedom of touch with the power of desktop-class workflows.
This isn’t just another incremental update. Apple is calling iPadOS 26 the biggest iPad update ever, and for good reason. From full-fledged windowing and multitasking to a reimagined Files app and built-in AI features, the iPad now handles tasks once reserved for laptops and desktops — while still being, unapologetically, a tablet.
Multitasking redefinedOne of the most computer-like features to land on the iPad is its brand-new windowing system. Users can now resize, rearrange, and tile multiple app windows — complete with familiar close, minimise, and resize controls. It works seamlessly with Stage Manager and even external displays, making it easier than ever to run complex workflows across several apps.
There’s also a new menu bar, accessible with a swipe or cursor hover, offering quicker access to in-app features, much like a traditional desktop app menu. And with Exposé, users can zoom out and view all their open windows at once — a nod to macOS-style multitasking.
Files app upgradeIf you’ve ever felt limited by the iPad’s file management system, that’s changing. The revamped Files app brings resizable columns, collapsible folders, and folder customisation with colours, icons, and emojis — and these changes sync across devices.
Even more telling: users can now drag folders directly into the Dock for quicker access, and even set default apps for specific file types — just like you would on a Mac or PC.
Apple IntelligenceiPadOS 26 bakes in Apple Intelligence, Apple’s new on-device AI system, in ways that enhance productivity and creativity without compromising privacy.
Live Translation brings real-time language translation to Messages, FaceTime, and even phone calls (yes, the Phone app is now on iPad).
Genmoji and Image Playground let users generate custom visuals with AI, while Shortcuts gains the ability to run advanced tasks — like comparing lecture notes with AI-generated summaries or creating images on command.
Developers can also tap into Apple Intelligence for app-specific functionality.
In short, it’s AI that’s useful, not gimmicky — and it runs directly on-device for speed and privacy.
Preview app, background tasks, and pro-level audio/videoWith the introduction of Preview for iPad, users can now view, annotate, and edit PDFs and images using Apple Pencil, bringing one of macOS’s most useful tools to the tablet.
Background Tasks finally allow long-running processes (like video rendering or large uploads) to continue even when you switch apps — a longtime desktop advantage now landing on iPad.
And creatives will love the new audio input control, voice isolation, and local video capture features, allowing for professional-grade recordings and clearer calls, especially when paired with AirPods Pro or AirPods 4.
Even more desktop parallelsJournal app arrives on iPad with handwriting, location tagging, and media support — a personal knowledge base for everything from daily journaling to creative planning.
Calculator gets 3D graphing in Math Notes, letting users write equations by hand and see them rendered in space.
Messages introduces group typing indicators, Apple Cash requests, and even conversation backgrounds powered by AI.
The addition of the Phone app — complete with call screening and hold assist — further cements the iPad as a communication hub.
Yes. But it’s not a MacBook clone.
What iPadOS 26 represents is Apple’s vision of what a computer should feel like in 2025: intuitive, creative, touch-first, but powerful enough to handle pro-level tasks. The iPad now supports full windowing, background processes, AI-generated workflows, detailed file management, external display support, and custom input control — all traits once exclusive to traditional computers.
At the same time, it hasn’t abandoned what makes the iPad unique: simplicity, portability, and fun. You can still sketch with Apple Pencil, personalise your Home Screen with animated icons, or create a Genmoji of your cat wearing sunglasses.
That said, if you pair an iPad Pro with a Magic Keyboard and external monitor — especially with M1 or M4 chips — it’s fair to say: yes, your iPad is now a computer.
New software features will be available this fall as a free software update for 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), and iPad mini (5th generation and later).
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