Next Gen iPadOS: iPadOS 26 vs. iPadOS 18 – 15 Game-Changing Upgrades Tested
Apple's iPadOS has seen remarkable advancements over the years, with each version introducing features aimed at improving performance, usability, and functionality. The leap from iPadOS 18 to iPadOS 26 is no exception, offering a range of upgrades that cater to both casual users and professionals. This detailed video from Max Tech highlights 15 significant improvements, helping you evaluate whether upgrading is the right choice for your needs.
Watch this video on YouTube. Performance: Faster, Smoother, and More Efficient
The performance enhancements in iPadOS 26 are immediately evident. Using advanced hardware optimization, this version delivers faster app launches, smoother multitasking, and a notable 20% boost in overall system responsiveness. These improvements are particularly impactful for resource-intensive tasks such as video editing, 3D rendering, and gaming. Compared to iPadOS 18, the newer version feels significantly more agile and capable, making it an excellent choice for users who demand high performance from their devices. User Interface: Subtle Refinements for Better Usability
iPadOS 26 introduces a more polished and intuitive user interface. While the changes may appear subtle at first glance, they have a profound impact on usability. You'll notice sharper icons, smoother animations, and a revamped control center that is more customizable than ever. Widgets are now seamlessly integrated, allowing a personalized home screen experience without adding unnecessary complexity. These refinements ensure a modern and user-friendly interface that enhances day-to-day interactions. Multitasking: A Productivity Powerhouse
Multitasking capabilities receive a significant upgrade in iPadOS 26. The revamped Stage Manager feature allows for more efficient app management, offering improved window resizing and enhanced external display support. In contrast, iPadOS 18's multitasking tools feel limited, especially for users managing complex workflows. If you rely on your iPad for productivity, the multitasking improvements in iPadOS 26 provide a powerful boost to efficiency, making it an indispensable tool for professionals and multitaskers alike. App Functionality and Ecosystem Integration
iPadOS 26 expands app functionality and strengthens its integration within Apple's ecosystem. Developers benefit from new APIs that enable more powerful applications, while users enjoy tighter synchronization across devices. For instance, the Files app now supports advanced search filters and seamless third-party app integration, making file management more intuitive and efficient. These updates underscore Apple's commitment to creating a cohesive and versatile platform that meets the needs of a diverse user base. Security and Privacy: Enhanced Protections
Security and privacy are central to iPadOS 26, with features like Lockdown Mode offering an extra layer of protection against cyber threats. Improved app permissions provide greater control over data sharing, making sure that your personal information remains secure. Compared to iPadOS 18, the newer version delivers more robust safeguards, addressing the growing need for privacy in today's digital landscape. These enhancements make iPadOS 26 a strong choice for users who prioritize security. Compatibility and New Productivity Tools
iPadOS 26 maintains compatibility with a wide range of iPad models, including older devices, though some features may depend on hardware capabilities. New productivity tools, such as enhanced Apple Pencil support and improved note-taking features, cater to both casual users and professionals. These tools streamline workflows and make the iPad an even more versatile device for work, creativity, and education. System Stability and Customization
System stability sees a marked improvement in iPadOS 26. Crashes and bugs are less frequent, and the overall experience feels more polished. Customization options have also expanded, allowing you to tailor your home screen, widgets, and app layouts to suit your preferences. These updates make the iPad experience more user-centric and adaptable, making sure that it meets the unique needs of each individual. Gaming and Media: A Better Entertainment Experience
For gamers and media enthusiasts, iPadOS 26 delivers noticeable upgrades. Graphics rendering is more efficient, latency is reduced, and high-resolution video playback is smoother. The addition of spatial audio support further enhances the media experience, making the iPad a more capable entertainment device than it was under iPadOS 18. Whether you're gaming, streaming, or enjoying high-quality audio, the improvements are both practical and enjoyable. Apple Pencil and File Management: Tools for Creativity and Productivity
The Apple Pencil becomes even more versatile in iPadOS 26, offering enhanced precision and new gestures for navigation and annotation. File management also sees significant improvements, including drag-and-drop functionality across apps and expanded storage options. These updates are particularly beneficial for creative professionals and users who rely on their iPads for productivity tasks, making the device a more powerful tool for work and creativity. Accessibility and Battery Life: Inclusive and Efficient
Accessibility features in iPadOS 26 are more inclusive than ever. Enhancements such as improved voice control and a more capable screen reader make the iPad accessible to a broader range of users. Battery efficiency has also been optimized, extending usage time by up to 15% compared to iPadOS 18. These changes ensure that the iPad remains a reliable and inclusive device, catering to the needs of all users while maintaining excellent performance. Should You Upgrade?
The transition from iPadOS 18 to iPadOS 26 offers substantial improvements across performance, usability, and functionality. Whether you prioritize multitasking, security, or entertainment, the newer version delivers meaningful enhancements that elevate the iPad experience. If your device supports iPadOS 26, the upgrade is well worth considering for its added features, optimizations, and overall polish.
Here is a selection of other guides from our extensive library of content you may find of interest on iPadOS 18.
Source & Image Credit: Max Tech Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPad, Technology News, Top News
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Daily Mail
40 minutes ago
- Daily Mail
Shoppers outraged as Woolworths removes popular trolley feature: 'I hate it'
Aussie supermarket customers have lamented the decision to remove an in-store technology feature that made shopping more convenient. Users of the Woolworths Scan&Go mobile app were recently informed via email of 'changes' to the in-store shopping technology. The appeal of Scan&Go was that it essentially eliminated the need to visit a checkout. Instead, shoppers who'd signed up to the app simply scanned each item using their phone, before placing it into their trolley, basket or bag. Once all items had been scanned, the shopping could then be paid for in-app. This generated a barcode, which was scanned at a dedicated Scan&Go counter as shoppers exited the store – without any need to visit a checkout register. But an email sent on June 24 informed customers that the Scan&Go mobile app would now 'no longer be available at some of our previously enabled stores'. A list of the impacted locations was provided in the email. Some of the stores included Glenorie NSW, Balwyn VIC, Toowong QLD, Walkerville SA, Charnwood ACT and Highgate WA. Furthermore, the email noted that in the 'remaining stores' where the feature continued to be enabled, new 'changes' meant it could no longer be used for in-app payments. '[T]he option to pay directly within the Scan&Go feature of the Woolworths app will no longer be supported,' read the email. The email explained that customers could still enjoy the 'convenience of scanning your groceries as you shop' on their mobile, but would instead need to proceed to a dedicated Scan&Go counter at the conclusion of their visit to 'easily' make payment on a kiosk PIN pad. 'We apologise for the inconvenience and appreciate your understanding'. Recent in-store signage also noted the Scan&Go changes. A notice posted in a Sydney Woolworths read: 'From Thursday 3 July, 2025, customers will no longer be able to pay using the Scan&Go features on the Woolworths App. Customers will need to finalise payment at the Scan & Go kiosk pinpad. We appreciate your understanding.' A Woolworths spokesperson confirmed to FEMAIL that they were 'phasing out' Scan&Go with the intention of eventually replacing them with the new Scan&Go trolleys, which have already been seen in select stores. These are essentially tablets that can be connected to trolleys, which scan each item as you shop. 'We launched 'Scan&Go mobile' in 2018 to help provide customers with the ability to scan items as they shop and pay on their mobile phone,' the spokesperson said. 'We've received feedback from some of our customers that using a mobile device to scan products whilst holding a basket and other items can be challenging. 'As a result we have looked to streamline the process by incorporating the Scan&Go mobile technology into our new "Scan&Go'"trolleys, to provide a hands free "Scan&Go" option. 'As a result we will be phasing out "Scan&Go mobile" in some stores while launching more "Scan&Go trolleys". Feedback from customers who have tried our "Scan&Go trolleys" has been overwhelmingly positive, with customers enjoying being able to scan and bag as they shop, and track their spend in real-time.' 'Scan&Go mobile will continue to be available for customers in limited stores, however from July 3, customers will need to continue to visit the Scan&Go check out to complete their transaction,' the spokesperson added. Frustrated Woolies hopper Simon Berry was amongst those that voiced their disappointment over the removal of the handy payment feature within the original version of the app. In a TikTok video that's been viewed over 20,000 times, Simon declared that he now had 'beef with Woolworths' over their decision to change the app, which he believed was previously 'hands down the best thing that's ever happened to grocery shopping in Australia'. The content creator, who regularly shares videos about consumer issues, explained that the original incarnation of the Scan&Go app saved him time because it meant he could avoid the check-outs and it eliminated 'double handling'. '[I]t's actually so archaic that the norm is to fill up your trolley with groceries, then go to the checkout, empty your trolley completely, scan all the items, and then load up your trolley again,' he explained in the video. 'Scan&Go completely eliminated that double handling, and there was no additional hardware needed, because you just used your phone.' However, Simon was adamant that Woolworths never previously did enough to promote the facility to its shoppers, resulting in really low 'awareness' and 'adoption' amongst shoppers. Simon noted the arrival of the replacement Scan&Go trolley tablet attachments – but he felt it was an 'unnecessary investment' given that shoppers could do practically the same thing using the current app on their phones. 'They both pretty much do the same thing and let you track your shop as you go,' he said. The video attracted hundred of replies, many from fellow fans who were crushed by the removal of the tech feature from their local store. 'I loved the Scan&Go. No double handling, no talking to anyone… went to go shopping yesterday and it was gone,' said one customer at an affected store. 'It also helped me stay within budget. They removed it from my store. I hate going back to the normal way,' added another. 'I stopped going to Coles because of Scan&Go. Back to Coles I go!' said a third. However, there were also replies from Woolies shoppers who were entirely unaware of the app's existence - appearing to support Simon's suspicions about its lack of promotion. 'I have not heard about this and would love to use it. I hate the checkouts,' replied one person. 'This is the first time I have ever heard of it and [I] go to Woolies almost every day!' added another. However some shoppers complained that they had given the feature a try, but had reverted back to using regular checkouts after finding it too cumbersome. 'I didn't like it – [there] was no where to put your phone while in scan mode,' one person explained. 'Then I bought 5 items and at checkout it needed verification by [a] staff member, which I had to hunt down. Then she had to scan five items - was three times longer than usual checkout.' Some amateur sleuths suspected the reason the supermarket giant had ditched the in-app payments feature was most likely a result of 'stock loss' and 'theft'. 'Woolies is tackling a lot of issues with stock loss through Scan&Go,' noted one commenter. 'The theft from it is probably a consideration in some areas,' added another. 'I was wondering if it's because there was huge stock loss, but if they are replacing it with a tablet solution they now have that and stolen tablets to deal with!' chimed in a third.
Geeky Gadgets
an hour ago
- Geeky Gadgets
You WON'T Believe These 50 iPadOS 26 Features!
iPadOS 26 delivers a significant update, further closing the gap between iPads and Macs. With a strong emphasis on multitasking, customization, and user-focused enhancements, this release transforms the iPad into a more versatile device for productivity, creativity, and entertainment. Whether you're managing files, gaming, or browsing, iPadOS 26 introduces a suite of features that redefine how you interact with your device, making it more powerful and intuitive than ever. The video below from Nikias Molina gives us a detailed look at iPadOS 26 and its range of new features. Watch this video on YouTube. Key Multitasking Upgrades iPadOS 26 introduces substantial improvements to multitasking, offering a more desktop-like experience. The revamped windowing system allows you to freely position and resize app windows, allowing a more flexible and organized workspace. With the addition of snapping options, you can align windows for better multitasking efficiency. A redesigned cursor, inspired by macOS, provides precise navigation, while the inclusion of a menu bar for app controls streamlines workflows by offering quick access to essential functions. These upgrades ensure that multitasking on the iPad feels seamless and professional, catering to both casual users and power users. Enhanced File Management for Greater Efficiency The Files app receives a comprehensive update in iPadOS 26, making file organization more intuitive and efficient. Key improvements include: Advanced filtering and sorting: Quickly locate files with enhanced options for filtering by type, date, or tags. Quickly locate files with enhanced options for filtering by type, date, or tags. Customizable folders: Personalize folders with colors, emojis, and tags to create a visually organized workspace. Personalize folders with colors, emojis, and tags to create a visually organized workspace. Pinned folders: Pin frequently used folders directly to the dock for instant access. These updates position the iPad as a more capable device for managing complex file systems, appealing to both casual users and professionals who rely on efficient file handling. A Refined and Customizable Design iPadOS 26 introduces a sleek 'liquid glass' user interface, featuring transparency and refractive effects that add depth and sophistication to the overall design. Customization options have also been expanded, allowing users to tailor their devices to their preferences: Icon styles: Choose between default, dark, and clear styles to personalize your home screen. Choose between default, dark, and clear styles to personalize your home screen. Lock screen customization: Adjust time displays, add widgets, and modify other elements to suit your needs. This refined design approach enhances both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the iPad, creating a more engaging and user-friendly experience. New Apps Expand the iPad's Capabilities iPadOS 26 introduces several new apps, each designed to broaden the iPad's functionality and appeal: Preview App: Manage PDFs with tools for markup, signatures, and seamless file handling, making document management more efficient. Manage PDFs with tools for markup, signatures, and seamless file handling, making document management more efficient. Journal App: Create handwritten notes, access journaling prompts, and enjoy full integration with Apple Pencil and iPhone for a cohesive experience. Create handwritten notes, access journaling prompts, and enjoy full integration with Apple Pencil and iPhone for a cohesive experience. Apple Games: A centralized hub for gaming, offering access to Apple Arcade, multiplayer options, and game recommendations. A centralized hub for gaming, offering access to Apple Arcade, multiplayer options, and game recommendations. Phone App: Traditional phone functionality with FaceTime integration and customizable contact posters for a personalized touch. These new apps enhance the iPad's versatility, making it a more comprehensive tool for both work and leisure. Upgrades to Existing Apps iPadOS 26 also brings targeted improvements to popular apps, refining their usability and functionality to better meet user needs: Safari: Enhanced private browsing and a new menu bar for smoother navigation and improved usability. Enhanced private browsing and a new menu bar for smoother navigation and improved usability. iMessage: Customizable chat backgrounds, including AI-generated designs, for a more personalized messaging experience. Customizable chat backgrounds, including AI-generated designs, for a more personalized messaging experience. Notes: A calligraphy pen tool for realistic handwriting, ideal for creative projects and detailed note-taking. A calligraphy pen tool for realistic handwriting, ideal for creative projects and detailed note-taking. FaceTime: A cleaner interface with poster previews, making communication more seamless and visually appealing. A cleaner interface with poster previews, making communication more seamless and visually appealing. Apple Music: Playlist pinning and an automix feature for smooth transitions between tracks, enhancing your listening experience. These updates ensure that each app delivers a more polished and user-friendly experience, catering to a wide range of user preferences. Productivity and Multitasking Tools For professionals and creatives, iPadOS 26 introduces several productivity-focused tools designed to enhance efficiency and multitasking capabilities: Background Downloads: Live activity tracking allows you to monitor download progress without interrupting your workflow. Live activity tracking allows you to monitor download progress without interrupting your workflow. External Monitor Support: Improved functionality enables true multitasking with multiple app windows displayed simultaneously on external monitors. These features make the iPad a more powerful and efficient tool for handling demanding tasks, whether you're working on a complex project or managing multiple applications at once. Bridging Mac-Like Features with iPad's Unique Strengths iPadOS 26 successfully combines Mac-inspired functionality with the iPad's distinctive strengths, creating a device that excels in productivity, creativity, and entertainment. From multitasking upgrades to design refinements and the introduction of new apps, this update ensures that the iPad remains at the forefront of innovation. Whether you're organizing files, customizing your interface, or exploring new tools, iPadOS 26 enables you to achieve more with your device, making it an indispensable part of your daily life. Below are more guides on iPadOS 26 features from our extensive range of articles. Source & Image Credit: Nikias Molina Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPad, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Geeky Gadgets
an hour ago
- Geeky Gadgets
How Databutton Makes App Development Easy for Everyone
Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the sheer complexity of building an app from scratch? From setting up databases to configuring authentication and integrating APIs, the process often feels like navigating a labyrinth of technical hurdles. Platforms like Supabase aim to simplify this, but even they can demand a steep learning curve for many users. Enter Databutton, a innovative tool that flips the script on app development. By using AI and automation, Databutton eliminates many of the tedious, technical steps, empowering creators of all skill levels to build functional, polished apps without breaking a sweat. It's not just a tool—it's a reimagining of how apps are made. Corbin Brown takes us through why Databutton might just be the antidote to overly complex development platforms. You'll discover how its AI-powered app generation, automated backend setup, and one-click deployment make it a fantastic option for both beginners and seasoned developers. Whether you're looking to create a simple newsletter signup form or a fully-fledged e-commerce platform, Databutton's intuitive design and robust features promise to streamline the process. By the end, you might find yourself wondering why you ever settled for more complicated solutions. AI-Powered App Development Core Features That Enhance Development Efficiency Databutton distinguishes itself by automating time-intensive tasks, allowing you to concentrate on your app's core functionality. Its standout features include: Automated Authentication and Database Integration: Simplifies user sign-ups, logins, and secure data storage, eliminating the need for manual backend setup. Simplifies user sign-ups, logins, and secure data storage, eliminating the need for manual backend setup. AI-Powered App Generation: Generates fully functional applications from wireframes or screenshots, making sure responsive designs across devices. Generates fully functional applications from wireframes or screenshots, making sure responsive designs across devices. Customizable Frontend and Backend: Provides flexibility to tailor user interfaces and backend logic to meet specific project requirements. Provides flexibility to tailor user interfaces and backend logic to meet specific project requirements. Seamless Third-Party API Integration: Assists connections with tools like Mailchimp and SendGrid, enhancing app functionality without added complexity. Assists connections with tools like Mailchimp and SendGrid, enhancing app functionality without added complexity. Real-Time Debugging: Offers actionable insights to resolve errors efficiently, even for users with limited technical expertise. Offers actionable insights to resolve errors efficiently, even for users with limited technical expertise. One-Click Deployment: Enables live application launches with minimal effort, bypassing complex terminal commands. Automating Authentication and Database Setup One of the most challenging aspects of app development is configuring authentication and database systems. Databutton addresses this by automating these processes entirely. For instance, if you are building a newsletter signup form, the platform automatically creates a secure database and links it to your app. This eliminates the need for manual backend configuration or API key management, saving significant time while making sure a secure and reliable environment. By handling these foundational tasks, Databutton allows you to focus on enhancing your app's functionality and user experience. SupabaseToo Complex? Use Databutton Instead Watch this video on YouTube. Find more information on AI-powered app development by browsing our extensive range of articles, guides and tutorials. AI-Driven App Creation for Rapid Development Databutton uses the power of artificial intelligence to transform app creation. By providing the platform with context—such as wireframes, screenshots, or even simple descriptions—you can generate fully operational applications within minutes. The AI ensures that the designs are responsive, adapting seamlessly to various devices, including desktops, tablets, and smartphones. This capability not only accelerates the development process but also reduces the technical burden, allowing you to prioritize refining your app's features and usability. Customizable Frontend and Backend for Versatility Flexibility is a key strength of Databutton, offering extensive customization options for both frontend and backend development. The platform allows you to modify UI elements such as themes, colors, and animations through intuitive prompts, eliminating the need for extensive coding. On the backend, preconfigured tools for user management, database operations, and scalability ensure that your application remains robust and adaptable. Whether you are creating a simple form or a complex enterprise solution, Databutton's versatility makes it an ideal choice for a wide range of projects. Simplified Integration with Third-Party APIs Integrating external APIs can often be a complex and time-consuming task. Databutton simplifies this process by supporting popular services like Mailchimp, Mailbluster, and SendGrid. The platform automates the setup of API keys and data transfer, making sure seamless communication between your app and external tools. This not only enhances your app's functionality but also significantly reduces development time, allowing you to deliver a polished product more quickly. Real-Time Debugging for Efficient Troubleshooting Debugging is often one of the most frustrating aspects of app development, but Databutton minimizes this challenge with its real-time debugging features. The platform provides detailed console logs and actionable tips to help you identify and resolve issues quickly. Its AI-powered assistance can even pinpoint specific problems and suggest tailored solutions, making it particularly valuable for beginners who may lack the technical expertise to troubleshoot complex errors. This feature ensures that your development process remains smooth and efficient. Effortless Deployment with One-Click Functionality Deploying an application can be a daunting task, often requiring intricate terminal commands and configurations. Databutton eliminates this complexity with its one-click deployment feature. This functionality allows you to launch live applications effortlessly, reducing the risk of errors and making sure that your app is ready for users in no time. By streamlining the deployment process, Databutton enables you to focus on refining your app's features and preparing for user engagement. Practical Use Cases for Databutton The versatility of Databutton makes it suitable for a wide range of applications. Here are a few practical examples: Newsletter Signup Forms: Quickly create forms that integrate with email marketing tools like Mailchimp while securely storing subscriber data. Quickly create forms that integrate with email marketing tools like Mailchimp while securely storing subscriber data. E-Commerce Platforms: Develop responsive online stores with backend logic for inventory management, payment processing, and customer tracking. Develop responsive online stores with backend logic for inventory management, payment processing, and customer tracking. Customer Management Systems: Build applications to monitor and manage customer interactions without requiring extensive coding expertise. Build applications to monitor and manage customer interactions without requiring extensive coding expertise. Event Registration Systems: Design platforms for event signups that include automated email confirmations and attendee tracking. Empowering Developers with Automation and AI Databutton bridges the gap between frontend and backend development by offering a user-friendly platform that automates critical processes. By simplifying tasks such as authentication, database integration, and deployment, it enables developers to focus on innovation and functionality. Whether you are working on a simple project or a complex application, Databutton provides the tools and flexibility needed to bring your ideas to life efficiently. Its combination of AI-driven automation and customizable features ensures that app development is accessible, streamlined, and effective for users of all skill levels. Media Credit: Corbin Brown Filed Under: AI, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
