The iPad is getting more like the Mac!
If you want your iPad to look more like a Mac, then get iPadOS 26. First you need to make sure that you have a legible iPad. Here are the models that can get iPadOS 26.
iPad Pro 12.9‑inch (3rd generation and later)
iPad Pro (M4)
iPad Pro 11‑inch (1st generation and later)
iPad Air (M3)
iPad Air (M2)
iPad Air (3rd generation and later)
iPad (A16)
iPad (8th generation and later)
iPad mini (A17 Pro)
iPad mini (5th generation and later)
To get iPadOS26 use the same steps that are in the iOS 26 article. If you already did that, then just go to Settings, tap on General, then tap on Software Update, and lastly in Beta Updates turn on iPadOS26 Beta.
Let’s talk about the new customization features. A lot of them are like the iPhone with new wallpapers that can look 3D, a new clear design for widgets and apps, and cool liquid glass effects everywhere!
Now how can you make your iPad like a Mac? With a new design that has a Traffic Light design for windows, a place in the Dock for Folders, a supercharged app for folders, and Background Tasks, which helps to download big files in background while you do other things on you iPad.
Now what is new in apps? First let’s talk about the ones you use to connect with others. In messages you get backgrounds, live translation, Contact Posters, a new feature that detects spam texts, and polls for group chats. The Phone App finally comes to iPad! So now you don’t have to go to FaceTime to call somebody! FaceTime also gets a new design and live translation.
There’s two news apps on the iPad. The Games app, that is like the old GameCenter app, but with a lot more features to connect with friends, and create challenges. The other app to finally come to the iPad is Journal. You can journal all you thoughts and ideas, in your handwriting with the Apple Pencil, and create separate journals for different parts in you life.
In the Photos app there is a new design, and an amazing feature to turn your flat 2D images into cool 3D images!
Reminders got smarter with Apple Intelligence. Now it can suggest tasks, grocery items, and follow up based on emails, websites, or other content on your iPad.
Image PlayGround has a new styles with ChatGPT. And has better controls when you’re making a photo for your family or friend.
Shortcuts gets integration with Apple Intelligence to make better and more personalized shortcuts.