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iPadOS 26 Improves Budget iPad, Establishing It as the Top Value in the Collection: Main Reasons Clarified [Video]

# iPadOS 26: Elevating the Base Model iPad to a Powerhouse

The recent launch of iPadOS 26 during Apple’s keynote has fundamentally changed the game for iPad users, especially for those with the base model. This upgrade presents an array of features that enhance the iPad experience, rendering it an appealing choice for various users. With a powerful multitasking window manager, improved menu toolbars, superior background task management, and a revamped Files app, the base iPad is now recognized as one of the best bargains in the computing realm.

## Primary Features of the Base Model iPad

The base iPad, retailing at $349 MSRP (often found for less than $300), has consistently been a dependable choice for students, families, and casual users. The 2024 update introduced substantial internal enhancements, positioning it as a modern competitor in the tablet market. Here are some of its key specifications:

– **A16 Bionic chip**
– **10.9-inch Liquid Retina display**
– **USB-C port**
– **12MP ultra-wide front-facing camera** (perfect for video conferencing)
– **Starts with 128GB of storage**
– **Supports Apple Pencil through USB-C**
– **Compatible with Magic Keyboard Folio**

These features guarantee that the entry-level iPad can meet the demands of the new iPadOS 26, which includes functionalities once exclusive to higher-tier models.

## iPadOS 26: Multitasking and Window Features

A highlight of iPadOS 26 is its incorporation of Mac-like multitasking features. For the first time, the base iPad supports:

– **Genuine windowed multitasking**: Users can resize and overlay multiple apps, akin to a desktop environment.
– **New window arrangement**: Snap windows side by side and move them around the screen freely.
– **Persistent floating applications**: Keep essential applications like Music or Messages open while working in another app, with the ability to show up to 12 apps simultaneously.
– **Drag and drop capabilities**: Effortlessly move content between windows, improving workflow efficiency, particularly with a trackpad.

This update opens up access to robust multitasking features, previously limited to Pro-level iPads, to a wider audience without the steep price.

## Crafting a Flexible iPad Setup for Under $450

Thanks to the new features of the base iPad, users can establish a flexible setup without overspending. While buying the iPad along with Apple’s accessories might sum to roughly $700, choosing third-party options can significantly lower expenses.

A complete setup might comprise:

– **Base model iPad**: $349
– **Third-party keyboard**: Around $100
– **Third-party USB-C Apple Pencil**: About $80

This totals approximately **$434 (before tax)**, delivering a powerful device that serves as a tablet, content consumption hub, note-taking tool, and even a computer substitute.

## Closing Thoughts

The base model iPad, once regarded as a simple device, has experienced a remarkable upgrade with the launch of iPadOS 26. It now provides genuine capabilities that appeal to a wide range of users, making it an outstanding value in Apple’s product lineup. While it may still lack some high-end features, the overall experience has improved sufficiently to warrant a reconsideration of its potential.

As users delve into the new features of iPadOS 26, the base model iPad emerges as a practical and powerful alternative for anyone requiring a flexible computing solution.