Apple iPadOS 26 Update: Complete Multitasking Revamp for a More Mac-Like iPad Experience

The ongoing debate about the iPad’s potential as a computer substitute remains vibrant, as enthusiasts wonder if it can fully replace traditional computers. Apple has continuously advanced the iPad’s capabilities, but some critics advocate for the adoption of macOS on the device. However, this seems unlikely, as it could inadvertently affect Mac sales. Excitingly, recent reports suggest that iPadOS 26 will significantly enhance multitasking features, drawing parallels to elements found in Mac operating systems.

Upcoming iPadOS 26: Key Features for Enhanced Productivity

Set to be unveiled at Apple’s WWDC 2025 on June 9, both iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 are expected to deliver substantial updates. Described as the largest update since the launch of iOS 7, iOS 26 may undergo a substantial design overhaul inspired by visionOS. Similarly, iPadOS 26 is poised to be a transformative release, with the latest insights from Mark Gurman indicating a complete overhaul of the iPad’s multitasking framework.

According to Gurman, the redesigned multitasking capabilities will mimic those of the Mac, suggesting a fundamental shift in how users will interact with their iPads. The anticipated changes may require users to utilize external peripherals, such as a keyboard and trackpad, which could mean that certain new functionalities may only be available when such devices are connected.

While specifics about the potential introduction of a Mac-like menu bar remain unconfirmed, Gurman has noted that the Preview app will be featured in iPadOS 26. This addition represents a significant step toward elevating the iPad’s utility, aligning it more closely with traditional computing experiences.

Apple is bringing its longstanding Preview app from macOS to iPadOS and iOS for the first time, giving iPad and iPhone users an in-house solution to PDF management, annotation, and editing. The software looks similar to the Mac version, and its launch screen is in the same style as apps like Pages and Keynote. It includes a big logo on the top portion of the screen advertising the Preview name and a gallery of document options below it. The app will be preinstalled rather than launched via the App Store.

We previously discussed the Preview app, which will also be available on the iPhone. The scope of iPadOS 26’s enhancements appears more extensive than initially anticipated. Additionally, the integration of design elements inspired by visionOS promises to enrich the overall user experience. Apple is set to announce iPadOS 26 on Monday; stay tuned for our comprehensive coverage as the updates unfold.

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