Apple has officially launched the iPadOS 26 Developer Beta, giving us our first look at the future of iPads. And if you use your iPad for more than just streaming and scrolling—this update might just change the game.
So, what does it actually mean for you?
Who Can Try iPadOS 26 Right Now?
Only developers have early access, but not all iPads qualify. If you own one of these, you’re in luck:
- iPad Pro (2018 and later)
- iPad Air (3rd gen and newer)
- iPad (7th gen and newer)
- iPad mini (5th gen and newer)
If you’re not a developer or your iPad isn’t on the list, don’t worry. A public beta is expected in the coming weeks, and the full release should roll out this fall—probably alongside the new iPhones, as usual.
Liquid Glass UI: Apple’s New Visual Style
The biggest change? The Liquid Glass UI. It’s sleek, shiny, and smoother than ever. Icons pop, animations glide, and the translucent layering gives your screen real depth.
It’s not just about looking pretty (though it definitely does). It’s about making everyday actions—like switching apps or swiping through widgets—feel faster, cleaner, and more modern.
New windowing system coming to iPadOS 26 will make multitasking much easier! #WWDC25 #iPadOS26 pic.twitter.com/ekWTuPpK0y
— Tim Schofield (@qbking77) June 9, 2025
Multitasking Gets Serious
If you use your iPad for work or school, you’ll love this. iPadOS 26 boosts multitasking in a big way:
- Dynamic App Switching: Flipping between apps feels smoother and faster.
- Custom Split View: Resize app windows the way you want.
- Better Stage Manager: Now more responsive and organized—perfect if you love using your iPad like a mini Mac.
Mac-Like Features, iPad Simplicity
Apple keeps blending iPad with Mac. This update pushes that even further:
- Revamped Files App: Easier file navigation, more iCloud options, and better support for external storage.
- Desktop-Level Safari: Tab groups, extensions, and more stable browsing—feels like you’re on a MacBook.
- External Display Support: Plug your iPad into a bigger screen and actually get something done.
Why This Update Matters
The iPad has always lived in this weird space—part tablet, part laptop. iPadOS 26 makes that gap smaller. For creatives, students, and casual power users, it means more flexibility without losing the iPad’s simple feel.
Sure, it’s still not macOS. But it’s starting to act like it wants to be.
What’s Next?
The iPadOS 26 Developer Beta is out now, and a public beta is likely coming soon. The final release? Expect it around September.
For now, if you’re a dev or just like living on the edge, download it and start testing. Everyone else—stay tuned, because this might be the iPad update you’ve been waiting for.
Also Read Apple Drops 10 Game-Changing Bombs at WWDC 2025 – You Can’t Unsee #6!
