Latest news with #iPadOS26
Yahoo
a day ago
- Yahoo
iPadOS 26 just made the iPad a true Mac replacement
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. Apple's WWDC 2025 event is a chance to get a sneak peek at what's coming to its products later in the year, both new and current in the form of software updates. It's also often a hint to what we might see product-wise and shows the direction the company is going. No more so than with the upcoming iPadOS 26. Now adopting a unified number relevant to the year (instead of what would have been iOS 19), all of Apple's devices will run a '26 version in 2026. That goes across the iPhone, iPad, Vision Pro, Apple Watch and Mac – though the MacOS also gets a new name of Tahoe. iPadOS has previously aligned itself closer to the iPhone OS than anything else. However, in recent years as the iPad has become faster and more frequently used with a keyboard, it has developed more Mac-like features. The iPad Air and iPad Pro devices now run Apple silicon chips (M3 and M4), making them as powerful as MacBooks. This has allowed you to use them for serious video and audio editing, illustration and gaming with ease. However, for general use, it has never been as easy to operate as a Mac – at least with a keyboard and mouse. Changes this year might seem relatively small on the surface. The iPad already has a task bar and using Stage Manager, the ability to have multiple windows open at once. Now, though, in iPadOS 26, on top of the new liquid glass design language, it features a new windows system, allowing you to resize and place windows anywhere, or even tile multiple windows on your screen. This works in much the same way as windows do in MacOS, with the three coloured dots in the top left of each window, to close, minimise or resize, plus the ability to drag the bottom right corner of the window too. You can run background tasks when you switch to a new window, which hadn't been the case before, and it now features the Preview app. Preview is easily one of the most useful tools on the Mac for previewing images and PDF, as well as editing, resaving and signing documents. iPad OS 26 also gets an open with command and the enhanced Files app, allowing you to colour-code folders, add emojis to them, and even drag them to the dock for easy access. Something that Mac users will be used to. While I still love to use the iPad as a handheld touchscreen device, I more regularly use it with a keyboard these days, so these features feel really helpful. I think with these additions, it will make using the iPad instead of a Mac even more achievable. I've always liked the idea of the iPad offering two modes – one for simple touchscreen operation, and another for more Mac-like operation. With this update, that dream feels almost realised. The choice between an iPad Air, iPad Pro, MacBook Air and MacBook Pro becomes much tougher. I do wonder how much longer it will be before we see a MacBook Pro with a touchscreen, especially if macOS can adopt some features from iPadOS. In the meantime, we could see a foldable iPad that bridges that gap even more. For me, though, 2026 is definitely the year of the iPad.
Geeky Gadgets
a day ago
- Geeky Gadgets
iPadOS 26 First Look - Top 10 HUGE Features
iPadOS 26 delivers a suite of updates aimed at enhancing multitasking, customization, and overall functionality. Whether you're a professional, a creative, or a casual user, this release introduces tools designed to make your iPad more versatile and efficient. From advanced window management to AI-powered automation, this update redefines how users interact with their devices. The awesome video below from Stephen Robles gives us a look at some of the top features in iPadOS 26. Watch this video on YouTube. Advanced Window Management iPadOS 26 introduces a significant overhaul to window management, bringing a more desktop-like experience to the iPad. You can now freely resize and position app windows, allowing for greater flexibility in multitasking. The updated Stage Manager enables better grouping of apps and supports multiple windows for the same app, making it easier to switch between tasks. Additionally, macOS-inspired stoplight buttons for minimizing, maximizing, and closing windows streamline navigation, offering a more intuitive and efficient workflow. Enhanced Lock Screen Customization The lock screen receives a dynamic upgrade, offering new ways to personalize your device. Key features include: 3D spatial scenes for photos, adding depth and dimension Adjustable clock sizes to suit your preferences Layered photo subjects for a visually striking effect Live photos and widgets for both aesthetic appeal and functionality These enhancements allow you to create a lock screen that is not only visually appealing but also tailored to your needs, blending style with practicality. Revamped Files App Managing files becomes more intuitive with the updated Files app. The improvements focus on making file organization faster and more user-friendly. Key updates include: Customizable folder icons and colors for quick identification New list and column views for easier navigation Enhanced contextual menus for actions like 'Open With' and setting default apps These changes simplify file management, making sure that users can locate and organize their documents with ease. Dedicated PDF Management with Preview The new Preview app is a fantastic option for handling PDFs, offering tools that cater to both casual users and professionals. Features include: Markup tools for annotations and edits Autofill capabilities for forms, saving time on repetitive tasks Zoom options for detailed reviews of documents A sidebar for seamless navigation through pages A loop feature to focus on specific sections of a document This app is designed to simplify workflows, making it an essential tool for anyone who frequently works with PDFs. Improved Audio Input Controls Audio input capabilities receive a significant boost, catering to creators and professionals alike. New features include: Support for USB microphones and audio interfaces for high-quality recordings Voice isolation technology to ensure clear and crisp audio App-specific audio input selection is directly accessible from the Control Center These updates provide greater flexibility and precision, making the iPad a more powerful tool for content creation and professional audio work. Expanded Journaling Tools The Journaling app now offers more robust features to help users document their thoughts and experiences. Enhancements include: Support for multiple journals, allowing better organization Map-based entry views for location tagging Apple Pencil integration for handwritten entries Export functionality to back up and share your entries These tools make journaling more interactive and personalized, encouraging users to capture their memories in creative ways. AI-Powered Automation Automation capabilities are elevated with the integration of advanced AI models. The updated Shortcuts app now supports: Text analysis for smarter and more efficient workflows Image recognition to simplify complex processes On-device and cloud-based automation for repetitive tasks These features empower users to save time and increase productivity, making the iPad an even more capable device for both personal and professional use. Local Video Call Recording FaceTime introduces a highly anticipated feature: local video call recording. This addition is particularly useful for meetings, interviews, or personal calls. Key capabilities include: High-quality recordings with separate audio and video tracks for each participant Background recording to ensure no moments are missed This feature enhances the utility of FaceTime, making it a more versatile tool for communication and documentation. Background Task Handling Multitasking is further improved with the ability to complete background tasks while using other apps. Features include: Support for file exports, downloads, and other processes running in the background Live activity indicators to keep you informed about ongoing tasks These updates ensure uninterrupted productivity, even during resource-intensive operations, making the iPad a more efficient tool for multitasking. Additional Features iPadOS 26 also introduces several smaller yet impactful updates that collectively enhance the user experience. These include: Live translation capabilities for real-time communication Expanded home screen customization options Menu bar integration for app-specific tools Improved multitasking gestures and tiling options These features, while not as prominent as the major updates, contribute to a smoother and more intuitive iPad experience. Looking Ahead iPadOS 26 represents a significant step forward in making the iPad a more versatile and capable device. With advanced window management, enhanced customization options, and powerful new apps, this update caters to a wide range of users, from professionals to casual users. As it continues to evolve, the iPad solidifies its position as a device that bridges the gap between creativity and productivity, offering tools that adapt to your needs. Uncover more insights about iPadOS 26 features in previous articles we have written. Source & Image Credit: Stephen Robles Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPad, Gadgets News, 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.
Hindustan Times
4 days ago
- Hindustan Times
Apple fixes iOS 26's biggest Liquid Glass complaint in latest Beta 2 update: What's new
With the second beta of iOS 26 for developers, Apple has fixed a major criticism that people had with the Liquid Glass: the readability of the Control Centre. Apple has now made the control centre more blurry compared to beta 1, which many said was hard to see, considering most of the background reflected through. iOS 26 brings a major visual overhaul.(Apple) With the second beta, the icons in the control centre did not stand out, in particular, because most of the background filtered through, making things hard to spot and, of course, hard to read. But now, with beta 2, Apple seems to have increased the intensity of the blur, which makes the foreground icons that still have glassy elements stand out a lot. While this still does not seem as strong as the current control centre implementation, from the looks of it, it makes the viewing experience a lot easier. Having said that, it has sparked an interesting conversation on the Apple subreddit, wherein people are saying that they dislike the new version and that beta 1 was not bad, just that it needed time for users to adapt. Some users pointed out that the glass should be a little smoky and that the beta 2 version 'does not look like glass anymore.' MOBILE FINDER: iPhone 16 LATEST Price And More Notifications have also received attention, too As pointed out by popular YouTuber Aaron Zollo of Zolo Tech, the notifications you get with beta 2 are slightly improved as well. They are more readable compared to what you got with beta 1; there is apparently more contrast. So, while the notifications are slightly better if you apply a light-coloured background, many people say that it could still affect readability. It is still going to be a while before Apple finally launches the final version of iOS 26 and other operating systems where Liquid Glass is going to be a present, including macOS 26 and iPadOS 26, likely in September. And that is why Apple could bring in many changes before the final release.
Geeky Gadgets
6 days ago
- Geeky Gadgets
iPadOS 26: Every Feature That Won't Work on Your Older iPad
iPadOS 26 introduces a variety of new features, design refinements, and performance upgrades, representing a significant evolution in Apple's tablet operating system. However, not all iPads will benefit equally from these advancements. Many of the most notable features are exclusive to newer models, particularly those powered by the advanced M-series chips. This distinction highlights the growing gap between older devices and Apple's latest hardware. Below is an in-depth look at how iPadOS 26 features vary across devices and what this means for users. The video below from Zollotech gives us more details. Watch this video on YouTube. Device Compatibility: Which iPads Are Supported? iPadOS 26 is compatible with a broad range of devices, making sure that many users can access its core updates. Supported models include: iPad (8th generation and later) iPad Mini (5th generation and later) iPad Air (3rd generation and later) iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation and later) However, the iPad 7th generation has been removed from the compatibility list, reflecting Apple's focus on optimizing the operating system for newer hardware. While older devices will still receive basic updates, they won't support the most advanced features. This limitation is largely due to the increased processing power and memory requirements of the latest functionalities, which older devices cannot meet. Enhanced External Display Support One of the most prominent updates in iPadOS 26 is its improved external display support. For iPads equipped with M-series chips, this feature unlocks full functionality when connected to external monitors, including: Extended desktop capabilities, allowing you to use the external display as an independent workspace The ability to run multiple apps simultaneously on the external screen In contrast, older iPads are limited to basic screen mirroring. This restriction significantly reduces their utility for professional workflows or multitasking on larger displays. If you frequently use your iPad for productivity tasks, this feature could be a compelling reason to upgrade to an M-series model. Multitasking and Windowing Enhancements Multitasking sees a major upgrade in iPadOS 26, particularly for devices with M1 chips or newer. These iPads can now support up to five app windows open at the same time, making it easier to manage complex workflows. This improvement is especially beneficial for users who rely on their iPads for multitasking-intensive tasks, such as video editing, graphic design, or research. On older devices, multitasking is capped at four app windows due to hardware limitations, including reduced RAM and processing power. While this still represents a functional improvement, it underscores the growing divide between legacy devices and Apple's latest offerings. 3D Spatial Scene Features The 3D spatial scene feature is one of the most visually striking additions to iPadOS 26. This functionality enhances photos and lock screens with depth and interactivity, creating a more immersive experience. However, this feature is only available on iPads with M-series chips, as it requires advanced graphics processing capabilities. Older models, including the iPad Pro (3rd and 4th generation), iPad Air (3rd and 4th generation), and iPad Mini (5th generation), do not support this feature. This limitation highlights the increasing reliance on innovative hardware to deliver Apple's most innovative features. Real-Time Translation Real-time translation is another standout feature in iPadOS 26, allowing live language translation in apps such as Messages, FaceTime, and phone calls. This functionality is particularly useful for international communication, allowing users to bridge language barriers seamlessly. However, it is restricted to iPads with M1 chips or newer and is only available in select regions. For users who frequently communicate across languages, this feature could be a significant advantage. Its absence on older devices may be a drawback for those who rely on their iPads for global collaboration or travel. Apple Intelligence Features iPadOS 26 introduces several new capabilities powered by Apple Intelligence, including: Advanced Shortcuts for automating tasks Image Playground for creative photo editing Background suggestions in Messages to enhance conversations Updates to Genoji and improved visual intelligence in screenshots These features are exclusive to M1 iPads and newer, as they require the computational power of advanced processors. While all supported devices benefit from general improvements, the absence of these tools on older models creates a noticeable disparity in user experience. General Improvements for All Devices Even if you own an older iPad, iPadOS 26 still delivers several meaningful updates that enhance usability and performance. These include: A sleek new liquid glass design for a more modern and refined aesthetic Performance optimizations for smoother operation across apps Refinements to multitasking, even within the constraints of older hardware These updates ensure that all compatible devices receive some level of improvement, even if they don't support the most advanced features. This approach allows Apple to maintain a balance between innovation and inclusivity. A Divided Experience: The Impact of Hardware Limitations iPadOS 26 represents a significant leap forward for Apple's tablet operating system, but its most advanced features are reserved for newer iPads equipped with M-series chips. While older models still benefit from general enhancements, the absence of features like enhanced multitasking, 3D spatial scenes, and real-time translation highlights the growing divide between legacy devices and Apple's latest hardware. For users who rely on their iPads for demanding tasks, upgrading to a newer model may be necessary to fully use the platform's potential. This update underscores the importance of staying current with Apple's hardware ecosystem to access the most innovative features and capabilities. Uncover more insights about iPadOS 26 features in previous articles we have written. Source & Image Credit: zollotech 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.
Time of India
20-06-2025
- Time of India
Apple SVP Craig Federighi reveals why the iPad won't become a Mac says: ‘It's a bad idea…'
Apple's senior vice president of software engineering, Craig Federighi recently answered one of the most asked questions by Apple fans, whether the iPad and Mac should ever merge into a single device. Federighi humorously answered using a memorable analogy: "We don't want to build sporks." Speaking to MacStories' Federico Viticci in an interview, Federighi explained Apple's philosophy behind not merging the two popular Apple products. "Someone said, 'If a spoon's great and a fork's great, then let's combine them into a single utensil, right?' It turns out it's not a good spoon and it's not a good fork. It's a bad idea. And so we don't want to build sporks," Federighi said. This analogy clearly explains Apple's belief that merging the two devices or operating systems will compromise the strengths of the devices and will also make the product less useful. Federighi further explained that Apple's main aim is to make both iPad and Mac excel in their respective areas and the company does not want the iPad to displace a Mac. "The Mac lets the iPad be iPad," he stated, highlighting that the existence of a robust Mac ecosystem allows the iPad to remain focused on its touch-first, immersive, and simple interface. He also said that this time the iPadOS 26 introduced many useful and improved features such as new windowing engine and desktop-like features, but these features are designed to cater to the needs of a broader range of iPad users. The main focus is to improve the capabilities of an iPad without compromising on its identity. Federighi also talked about the growth of multitasking functionality in the iPadOS. He described evolution as a multi-year journey of experimentation. He added that if Apple had introduced traditional Mac-like menu bars on the iPad, developers might have designed their apps differently, which could have compromised the iPad app ecosystem. While the two platforms can "be inspired by elements of the Mac" and vice-versa, Federighi firmly believes that a full merger would lead to a messy, confusing, and ultimately inferior user experience . Apple remains committed to its strategy of offering distinct devices optimized for different use cases, rather than a "compromise" solution that attempts to be all things to all people. AI Masterclass for Students. Upskill Young Ones Today!– Join Now
