Apple WWDC 2025: iPadOS 26, hailed as the most significant update to the iPad’s operating system to date, is here. This transformative release promises to push the iPad’s versatility and capabilities further than ever before, introducing a groundbreaking “Liquid Glass” design, an innovative windowing system, and deeply integrated Apple Intelligence features that will redefine productivity and creativity for iPad users.
New Liquid Glass theme
A striking visual overhaul comes with the new Liquid Glass design, lending a more modern aesthetic to the iPad interface. This elegant translucent design is set to provide a fresh and immersive user experience, making interaction with apps and content more fluid and visually appealing.
iPad gets windows!
A major leap for multitasking on the iPad is the introduction of an all-new windowing system. This highly anticipated feature empowers users to resize and organize app windows with unprecedented intuitiveness, finally bringing a desktop-class window management experience to the tablet form factor. This allows for more flexible workflows and enhanced productivity, enabling users to truly harness the power of the iPad’s expansive display.
More Apple Intelligence
Deeply embedded across iPadOS 26 is Apple Intelligence, bringing a new level of smart capabilities to the iPad. Users can use features like Live Translation, allowing seamless communication across languages directly within applications. Furthermore, Apple Intelligence introduces powerful new creative tools, designed to unlock new possibilities for artists, designers, and anyone looking to express themselves on the iPad.
Updated Apple apps
Core applications have also received substantial upgrades. The Files app is significantly enhanced with improved organization and customization options, making it easier for users to manage their documents and media. For creators and audiophiles, new audio features offer more flexible input options and streamlined recording capabilities, elevating the iPad’s potential as a portable studio.
A new Preview app
The Preview app comes to iPad, offering a dedicated app for creating a quick sketch, as well as viewing, editing and marking up PDFs and images with Apple Pencil or by touch. Apple says that users can access all of their PDFs and images in the Files app right from Preview, create an empty page, use Apple Pencil to draw and write on it, and use AutoFill to quickly fill out PDF forms.
When will iPadOS 26 be released?
Developers will gain early access to iPadOS 26, with a public beta anticipated later this summer. The official release of iPadOS 26 is expected in Fall 2025.