This summary outlines key features and changes in iPadOS 26, including compatibility, visual redesign, enhanced multitasking and window management, the introduction of a Mac-like menu bar, significant improvements to the Files app, the new Preview app, updates to the Photos app with spatial scenes and organization tools, better microphone control for content creators, and the arrival of the Journal app on iPad with Apple Pencil support.
iPadOS 26 Compatibility #
- M-Series Processors: All iPads with M-series chips are compatible.
- iPad Pro (12.9-inch): 3rd generation and newer.
- iPad Pro (11-inch): 1st generation and newer.
- iPad Air: 3rd generation and newer.
- iPad (Standard): With A16 chip, or 8th generation and newer.
- iPad mini: With A17 Pro chip, or 5th generation and newer.
- Checking Your iPad Model: Settings > General > About > Model Name.
- Updating: Settings > General > Software Update.
New "Liquid Glass" Design #
- Consistent Look: Uniform design across all Apple devices (iPad, iPhone, Mac, Apple Watch, Apple TV).
- Control Center: Now a transparent overlay.
- Apple Apps: Features like News have a new menu bar and glass-style slider.
- Accessibility Option: "Reduce Transparency" in Settings > Accessibility > Display & Text Size to reduce transparent layers.
Enhanced Multitasking and Window Management #
- Undocking and Resizing: Swipe up from a small icon in the bottom right corner (e.g., Safari) to undock and resize windows from any corner.
- Moving Windows: Grab the title bar to move windows freely.
- Traffic Light System: Red (close), Amber (minimize), Green (full screen) buttons in the top left of windows.
- Green Button Long Press: Access move and resize options (left, right, top, bottom, or assign all open apps to available space).
- Full-Screen Apps Setting: Settings > Multitasking & Gestures > Full Screen Apps for iPhone-style app switching instead of floating windows.
- Stage Manager: Improved with new window management features.
Mac-like Menu Bar #
- Activation: Swipe down slightly from the top of any app.
- Functionality: Provides quick access to all app actions and displays available keyboard shortcuts.
- Availability: Included in all Apple apps and most third-party apps.
Files App Improvements #
- List View with Columns: Drag and resize columns for better organization.
- Folder Customization: Long-press on a folder to add colors, tags, icons, or emojis.
- Folders in Dock: Drag folders from Files to the Dock for quick access.
- Fan View (default): Opens as a fan.
- Grid View: Long-press in the Dock, then "View Content As" > "Grid" to show documents and subfolders on the home screen.
Preview App #
- Interactive Design: Features the "interactive glass effect" for visual flair.
- Functionality: More than just viewing files; offers powerful editing tools.
- Recent Files: Displays recent photos, PDFs, Photoshop documents, etc.
- PDF Editing: Autofill forms, markup tools, rotate, select parts, scan new documents with the iPad's camera.
- Shared Tab: Access files from shared iCloud folders directly.
Photos App Updates #
- Visual Overhaul: New design consistent with "liquid glass."
- Sidebar Navigation: Directly switch between "Library" and "Collections."
- Collection Organization: "Edit" button in the top left allows reordering of sections (e.g., pinned areas, utility section).
- Spatial Scenes: Small hexagon icon in the top right of a photo processes the image to create a 3D effect without altering the original.
Better Microphone Control #
- External Microphone Support: Use professional microphones (e.g., Shure SM7DB via USB) with single-cable connection.
- Control Center Integration: Access microphone input selection (e.g., for Voice Memos) directly from Control Center.
- Local Capture Tool: New Control Center option to record Zoom, FaceTime, or other calls, saving video directly to the Files app for editing.
Journal App on iPad #
- Availability: Now on iPad (previously iPhone only).
- Interface: Similar to Mac version with a sidebar for insights and journals.
- Journal Creation: Create multiple journals with custom names, colors, and icons.
- Entry Content: Add photos, location, audio (with transcription), mood/emotion, and drawings/sketches with Apple Pencil.
- Journaling Suggestions: Integrated into the app.
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