### iPadOS 26: Boosting Productivity with a Mac-style Dock Experience
iPadOS 26 brings important enhancements designed to bolster productivity on the iPad, with one of the key features being its revamped dock functionality. This capability, which keeps the dock visible while engaging with apps, provides iPad users with a more Mac-like feel.
#### New Window Management System
The most prominent update in iPadOS 26 is the launch of a new window management system that closely mimics macOS. Users can now resize and layer windows freely, enhancing multitasking abilities and creating a more adaptable workspace. This system resolves some of the constraints found in the earlier Stage Manager feature, presenting a more user-friendly and flexible method for handling several applications simultaneously.
#### Dock Visibility Settings
A significant improvement in iPadOS 26 is the option to keep the dock visible even during app usage. This feature can be accessed in the Settings app under the Multitasking & Gestures section, where users can toggle the option labeled ‘Automatically Show & Hide Dock.’
While users of macOS are used to an always-visible dock or one that hides automatically, iPadOS behaves somewhat differently. The dock is consistently displayed on the Home Screen but generally stays hidden while using apps unless activated. However, with the new setting enabled, users can keep the dock visible while working in applications, as long as they follow two straightforward rules:
1. The app’s window cannot be in full-screen mode, which will cause the dock to be hidden.
2. The app’s window must not cover the lower area of the screen where the dock is located.
By fulfilling these conditions, users can benefit from having the dock readily available at all times, simplifying app switching and enhancing overall productivity.
#### Improved App Management
Keeping the dock visible while using apps not only facilitates better multitasking but also complements its new functionality of holding folders from the Files app. This integration allows for quick retrieval of essential files and applications, making the iPad more reminiscent of a conventional computer.
Numerous users have reported that activating this new setting and adjusting their window sizes to fit the dock has greatly improved their workflow, making the iPad experience more similar to that of a Mac.
#### Conclusion
The new dock feature in iPadOS 26 signifies a substantial advancement in narrowing the divide between iPad and Mac experiences. By enabling users to keep the dock visible while engaged with applications, Apple has significantly augmented the iPad’s productivity potential, transforming it into a more formidable tool for both professionals and everyday users. What are your impressions of this new feature?
