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ZDNET's key takeaways
In iPadOS 26, the addition of a Mac-like windowing system, a menu bar, a real cursor, and a much-improved Files app makes the iPad a lot better for getting work done.
There are still a couple missing features that would make a big difference in iPadOS 26.
While iPadOS 26 makes the iPad a much more complete device, power users shouldn't expect to get productivity benefits versus using a Mac.
The iPad and the Mac have always been complementary devices with a few overlapping functions -- until iPadOS 26, which brings them a lot closer together. The big question since Apple announced iPadOS 26 at WWDC 2025 in June has been, "Does this mean I can finally use my iPad to replace my laptop?"
Also: Apple's iPhone 17 event is right around the corner - here's everything we know so far
The answer for me is "No." But that doesn't mean that iPadOS 26 isn't a big step forward. I've been using the betas of iPadOS on a daily basis for the past two months, and I found a lot to like. Let's dig into the best new features that I think you'll love on your iPad when the new software arrives.
How I tested iPadOS 26
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