M3 iPad Air running iPadOS 26 Developer Beta. Prakhar Khanna/ZDNET
I was intrigued and curious to try iPadOS 26 when Apple first announced it at WWDC 2025 last month. For the longest time, the iPad has been something I've wanted to add to my workflow but couldn't due to its rigid operating system -- one that doesn't necessarily complement the iPad's flexible hardware.
It seems Apple was aware of this, too since iPadOS 26 attempts to bridges the longstanding gaps between the Apple tablet and a computer. I would love to finally use my M3 iPad Air to its full potential.
Also: ZDNET's WWDC 2025 recap with Sabrina Ortiz and Jason Hiner
I recently installed the first developer beta on my 13-inch M3 iPad Air to see if I could use it for my usual productivity workflow. The new multitasking system, better support for mouse or trackpad, an improved file management system, and subtle additions to the UI tell me yes. And within hours of usage, I could sense that iPadOS 26 is the update I've been waiting years for.
(Note: Since I'm testing on the developer beta of iPadOS, this is more of a first-hand demonstration of its latest features, and not a review or testimonial. The experience using the software will likely undergo several more changes before it's ready for the public.)
Multitasking on the iPad gets a meaningful boost
iPadOS 26 Developer Beta 1 Multitasking & Gestures setting screenshot Prakhar Khanna/ZDNET
The new Windowed multitasking system is close to what you'd expect from any Windows or MacOS computer. It is easier to manage and, unlike Stage Manager, utilizes the full screen. Once you open an app, you can resize it from the little curve at the bottom right corner or use the mouse pointer to hold and drag from the sides.
An app can be resized to any dimension you want, as long as the developer supports it. You can also grab the top of an in-use app and toss it to either side to automatically fill half the screen. I'm still getting used to it, but I love this gesture.
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