iPadOS 26: iPad gets updated with resizable windows, a menu bar, and multitasking that brings it closer to the Mac

iPads have taken a major step forward this year with iPadOS 26, an update that marks a before and after in the management of apps on the screen, multitasking, and the visual appearance of the systemThis change responds to a long-standing user demand: to bring the iPad experience closer to that of a desktop computer, without sacrificing the tactile simplicity that characterizes Apple's tablet.

iPadOS 26 debuts the biggest visual redesign in its history, integrating the new language «Liquid glass» that the iPhone already debuted. Now, icons, backgrounds, and buttons play with transparencies, glass effects, and reflections that take advantage of the device's large screen. The entire system is more customizable, dynamic and with fluid animations that accompany each action.

Multitasking and resizable windows

The main new feature of iPadOS 26 is the new flexible window system. Now It is possible to open multiple applications on the screen, adjust their size by simply dragging a corner and position them freely as if it were a traditional desktop.This system supports multiple apps at once and saves the position and size of each one, so when you reopen a window, it appears exactly where you left off.

To make organization easier, the iPad includes Expose, a legacy macOS feature that displays all your open apps and windows in a panoramic view. Simply swipe up or hold to see everything you're using at a glance and switch tasks instantly. Smart tiling allows you to place windows on edges and arrange them into thirds or quarters of the screen., ideal for working on several things at once.

Real multitasking is completed with the possibility of run processes in the background. Now you can, for example, export a video in one app while continuing to work in another, improving productivity and performance.

Menu bar and window controls

For the first time, the iPad integrates a full Mac-inspired menu bar, accessible by swiping down from the top of the screen or hovering over the top if you're using a keyboard and trackpad. From this bar, you can access all of each app's functions, with an internal search to quickly locate commands and the option to customize menus to suit each developer's needs.

new window controls allow you to close, minimize, or resize each app to your liking. The classic traffic light buttons (close, minimize, maximize) come to the iPad, making managing multiple apps more intuitive and visual.

Improvements in apps and productivity

The update not only affects the look and multitasking, but power key productivity toolsThe Files app is similar to the Mac Finder, allowing you to:

• List view with customizable columns
• Folders, colors, icons and emojis to easily identify them
• Being able to set default apps for each file type
• Drag folders to the Dock for quick access

Another notable arrival is Preview, the classic macOS app. Now allows you to view and edit PDF documents or images, fill out forms with AutoFill, and even annotate or sketch directly with Apple Pencil. Fully integrates with the system for a more efficient work experience.

They also join other native utilities such as Journal (for recording moments with text, photos, voice, and a map), the Phone app (for making and receiving calls directly on the iPad, with real-time translation and call screening features), and Apple Games, with a game center and Game Overlay feature for chatting and inviting friends without switching apps.

Artificial intelligence and creativity

Apple's own AI, now called Apple Intelligence, takes center stage in iPadOS 26:

• Simultaneous translation in Messages, FaceTime, and Phone, with on-device processing to preserve privacy.
• Improved creative tools in Genmoji and Image Playground, with new styles and the ability to create custom images to the user's taste.
• Advanced Smart Automations in Shortcuts y quick access to AI models for complex tasks, such as summarizing text or creating images directly.

Developers can leverage these models to integrate AI features into their own apps, boosting creativity and work efficiency.

Compatibility and availability

iPadOS 26 will be available as free download this fall for a wide number of models, including:

• iPad Pro (M4, 12,9” 3rd gen. and later, 11” 1st gen. and later)
• iPad Air (M2 and 3rd gen. and later)
• iPad (A16, 8th gen. and later)
• iPad mini (A17 Pro, 5th gen. and later)

Some specific functions, especially those from Apple Intelligence, may require newer models or chips with greater processing powerThe public beta will be available in July for those who want to try out the new features first, although The final version is expected to be more stable.

The arrival of iPadOS 26 represents a fundamental advancement in the way you use your iPad, allowing you to manage apps like never before, harness the power of advanced multitasking, and take advantage of a modern, adaptable design.