Apple iPad gets true multitasking, background processes and file management via iPadOS 26

Multitasking on the iPad now much more effective

The absolute highlight of iPadOS 26 are the new multitasking features. Apple finally allows iPad users to display a larger number of app windows on the screen at the same time, freely resize them, and position apps anywhere, similar to Windows or macOS. Just like on desktop operating systems, windows can be easily dragged to the edge of the screen to scale them to half or a quarter of the screen size.

All open windows can be clearly displayed side by side with a simple swipe gesture. Apple has even created a menu bar at the top of the screen, which, just like on the Mac, makes frequently used features easily accessible. The Preview app is now also available on the iPad, allowing users to open and edit numerous types of documents without having to resort to third-party apps. For the first time, true background processes are also possible, even if they are processor-intensive, such as exporting videos.

Apple has overhauled the Files app, making it much easier to sort files into folders and search through them, similar to macOS. Downloads can now be found in the corresponding folder in the Dock. Files and folders can also be dragged directly from the Files app to the Dock. Furthermore, iPadOS 26 introduces Apple's new Gaming app, which lets users download and open games and start multiplayer matches with friends. Lastly, the Journal app, already familiar from the iPhone, is now on the iPad.
 

Availability and compatibility

iPadOS 26 is available now as a developer beta, with the public beta following in July and the final version being released as a free update in the fall. The operating system can be installed on the 2018 iPad Pro, the third-generation iPad Air, the eighth-generation iPad, the fifth-generation iPad mini, and all newer models.