Apple’s iPadOS 26 is introducing powerful productivity features while maintaining the simplicity that makes the iPad so popular. Executives at Apple revealed that the shift towards Mac-like capabilities was not a quick decision, but a carefully considered process. 
The latest update brings new features like flexible app windowing, advanced keyboard shortcuts, and a floating menu bar, bridging the gap between iPad and Mac functionality without sacrificing the iPad’s user-friendly nature.
As iPads are equipped with high-performance chipsets like the M4, their raw power has been unmatched in the tablet market. However, for a long time, the iPads didn’t fully utilize this power because Apple intentionally held back software features. This left power users relying on MacBooks for more complex tasks. With the unveiling of iPadOS 26, Apple is addressing this gap by adding productivity-focused features to the iPad.
In a recent interview with TechRadar, Apple executives Kurt Knight, Senior Director of Platform Product Marketing, and Sebastien Marineau-Mes, Vice President of Software Engineering, explained that the shift towards adding Mac-like capabilities was a gradual process. “As the hardware improved, users wanted to do more things on the iPad, things they were used to doing on their Macs,” said Knight.
While the idea of merging iPadOS with macOS has been floated, Apple has made it clear that this will not happen. Senior VP of Software Engineering, Craig Federighi, emphasized that the iPad’s simplicity should be preserved, even as more features are added. The challenge for Apple was how to introduce productivity features without losing the core simplicity of the iPad. This balance is key to the company’s approach.
The multitasking features in iPadOS 26 have been fine-tuned, particularly the windowing system, which was redesigned to better manage multiple apps and windows across the entire iPad product line. Despite the added features, Apple is committed to keeping iPadOS and macOS distinct, even if this frustrates some users. The company believes that offering a seamless Mac experience on the iPad could cannibalize its MacBook sales, and that would not be in the best interests of the business.
The iPadOS 26 update is a huge step forward for iPads, bringing them closer to the Mac in terms of functionality while still preserving what makes them unique.