iPadOS 26 RC Boosts Productivity for iPad Users

iPadOS 26 RC Release Candidate Enhances iPad Productivity with New Features.Apple has seeded the iPadOS 26 Release Candidate. The update is now available for developers and public beta testers. It brings a significant focus on productivity for all supported iPad models. This follows the initial preview at WWDC 2025 three months ago.The update introduces a new window tiling system and a dedicated Preview app. These features aim to create a more desktop-like experience on the iPad. Apple is finally addressing long-standing user requests for a more capable operating system.

Key Productivity Features in iPadOS 26 RC

The new window tiling system is a major highlight. It allows users to open and manage multiple app windows simultaneously. This multitasking enhancement works similarly to the macOS experience.A new Preview app is also included. It is designed specifically for the iPad. The app offers deep Apple Pencil integration for marking up documents and PDFs.The Files app receives important updates. Users can now add folders directly to the dock for quicker access. This simplifies file management and improves workflow efficiency.According to reports from Reuters, these changes represent a strategic shift. Apple is positioning the iPad as a true laptop replacement. The company is leveraging its hardware with more powerful software.

Design and Intelligence Upgrades

iPadOS 26 RC also introduces the Liquid Glass design language. This refresh affects the Lock Screen, Home Screen, and system icons. The new interface offers a fresh, glass-like aesthetic while maintaining usability.Apple Intelligence features are a core part of this update. They include onscreen awareness and advanced Visual Intelligence search. Users can take a screenshot and search for highlighted items online.Some features are powered by ChatGPT integration. This partnership enables new Image Playground creations and Genmoji upgrades. A new Live Translation toggle is also available for instant language conversion.It is important to note device compatibility. Apple Intelligence requires an iPad with an M1 chip or A17 Pro chip or newer. The full iPadOS 26 update supports older models like the iPad 8 and iPad mini 5.

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The iPadOS 26 RC signals a new era for iPad productivity. Its feature set finally bridges the gap between tablet and computer. This update could redefine how professionals use their iPads daily.

Info at your fingertips

Which iPad models support iPadOS 26?

iPadOS 26 supports iPad 8, iPad mini 5, iPad Air 3, and iPad Pro 3 or later. However, Apple Intelligence requires an M1 chip or newer for full functionality.

What is the most standout feature?

The new window tiling system is a game-changer. It allows for true multitasking by managing multiple app windows side-by-side, much like a traditional computer.

When will the final version be released?

The Release Candidate phase typically precedes the public launch by one to two weeks. A public release is expected very soon based on Apple’s usual schedule.

Does it require a subscription?

No, iPadOS 26 is a free software update. The ChatGPT-powered features within Apple Intelligence are also free to use at launch.