# iPadOS 26: The iPad Transforms into a Genuine Computer
With the unveiling of [iPadOS 26](https://9to5mac.com/guides/ipados-26/), Apple has made a substantial move in evolving the iPad into a gadget that can truly operate as a computer. This transition signifies a break from Apple’s former perspective, which frequently highlighted the distinctions between the iPad and conventional computers.
## The iPad Was Never Considered a Computer
Traditionally, Apple has conveyed mixed messages about the identity of the iPad. In 2017, the company rolled out the [“What’s a computer?” ad campaign](https://9to5mac.com/2017/11/16/ipad-pro-whats-a-computer-ad/), implying that the iPad could handle many tasks generally linked to computers. Nevertheless, Apple has also insisted that iPads and Macs have separate functions. Tim Cook famously compared the merging of a PC and a tablet to “combining a toaster and a refrigerator,” reinforcing the idea that these devices fulfill different roles.
While it is true that the iPad has technically always been a computer, the discussion revolves around its ability to act as a full-fledged replacement for a PC or Mac. Numerous users, including some supporters, have found it challenging to view the iPad as a genuine alternative to traditional computing devices.
## But Now I Would Argue It Is
The launch of iPadOS 26 alters the discussion. The update significantly boosts the iPad’s functionalities, making it a more enticing option for users familiar with Macs or PCs. While it may not cater to every user’s requirements, the innovations in iPadOS 26 establish it as a strong player in the computing arena.
### Enhanced Window Management
One of the most remarkable upgrades in iPadOS 26 is the implementation of proper window management. In the past, the iPad was confined to running one full-screen app at a time, with features like Slide Over and Split View offering limited multitasking capabilities. Although Stage Manager provided some improvements, it still lacked the flexibility offered by a Mac.
Now, iPadOS 26 enables users to run multiple apps at the same time, adjusting the position and size of each window as needed. With support for up to 12 apps displayed concurrently, the iPad’s multitasking functionality has reached a level comparable to that of a Mac.
### Enhanced Drag-and-Drop and File Management
Another key enhancement is the refined drag-and-drop capability. Moving content between applications was previously cumbersome, but the new iPadOS streamlines this task. Furthermore, file handling has seen considerable updates, including the ability to drag folders into the dock, label folders with symbols for quick recognition, and customize list views.
The addition of a menubar further improves usability, making features easier to access and discover. This addresses a long-standing critique of iPad apps, where users often faced challenges in locating certain functionalities.
## An Economical Computing Solution
One of the most astonishing aspects of these updates is that they are available on the entry-level iPad, presenting an appealing option for price-sensitive customers. For under $450, consumers can obtain an A16 iPad, a Logitech keyboard and trackpad, and even a third-party Pencil, creating a robust setup at a significantly lower price point than a MacBook.
## Conclusion
With the enhancements introduced by iPadOS 26, the iPad has progressed into a device that can truly be regarded as a computer. While it may not suit everyone’s needs, the new features and enhancements position the iPad as a plausible alternative for many users. As Apple continues to blur the boundaries between its devices, the iPad’s significance in the computing realm is stronger than ever.
