**iPadOS 26: A Significant Change for iPad Users**
iPad users have long sought software that complements the robust hardware of the device, and with iPadOS 26 this year, Apple seems poised to truly fulfill that demand. Here’s why iPadOS 26 feels like the substantial change we’ve all been hoping for.
### iPad Is Perceived to Be Limited by Software
Since its debut in 2010, the iPad has been widely embraced, yet it has frequently faced criticism for software limitations. Although the one-app-at-a-time interface promotes focus and accessibility for novices, it has also created hurdles for power users who need multitasking features.
Over time, Apple has rolled out various multitasking capabilities in iPadOS, including Split View and Slide Over. However, these functionalities have often seemed constricting compared to the flexible windowing found on Macs. Activities like podcasting and file management have also been tedious, causing many users to have a Mac nearby for specific tasks, like making playlist folders in Apple Music.
In spite of these drawbacks, iPadOS has slowly progressed, adding new features that make use of the iPad’s hardware. Nevertheless, the introduction of iPadOS 26 seems to be a turning point.
### iPadOS 26: The ‘Computer’ Upgrade We’ve Desired
Now in developer beta, iPadOS 26 is anticipated to be a remarkable update that boosts productivity. Apple has revealed a slew of features that indicate the iPad is edging nearer to operating as a complete computer.
Notable features of iPadOS 26 include:
– Freeform resizing of windows without needing a special mode
– A Files app that closely resembles Finder more than ever before
– Improved audio controls for podcasting
– An app menu bar for controls and shortcuts
– Inclusion of folders in the dock
– A more accurate pointer akin to a Mac’s
– A Preview app for document viewing
– Management of background tasks
– Exposé for managing windows
These enhancements suggest that the iPad is increasingly adopting Mac-like characteristics while still maintaining its identity as a touch-based device.
Although there is always potential for enhancement—such as integrating macOS Tahoe’s Spotlight advancements—iPadOS 26 represents a shift away from the earlier constraints that kept iPadOS more in line with iPhone functionality.
By delivering powerful, Mac-inspired features without compromising the iPad’s ease of use, iPadOS 26 may finally turn the most doubtful users into advocates for the iPad as a robust computing tool.
Do you believe iPadOS 26 aligns the iPad’s software with its hardware? Why or why not? Share your thoughts in the comments.
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