Examining the performance of iPadOS 26 on Apple's most affordable tablet: Our Review
The latest update to iPadOS, version 26, has brought a significant boost to the performance and productivity capabilities of the entry-level iPad. These enhancements, designed to make the device more Mac-like, have been warmly received by users who appreciate the new features and design elements.
One of the most notable changes is the full multitasking overhaul with a new windowing system. Users can now open multiple app windows simultaneously and freely resize and arrange them anywhere on the screen, similar to macOS. This offers much more flexibility than previous split view or slide over multitasking modes.
Another game-changer is the introduction of Stage Manager multitasking, a feature previously only available on iPad Pro and iPad Air. This functionality clusters apps into windows and works with external displays, greatly enhancing multitasking capabilities on the entry-level iPad.
Background tasks with Live Activities are another productivity-boosting feature. Apps can now run intensive workflows fully in the background, such as video export and 3D rendering, without needing to stay active on screen. Progress is shown via Live Activities at the top of the display, improving workflow efficiency.
The system cursor has also been redesigned from a round blob to a more precise pointer that morphs and includes “shake to find” functionality, improving navigation usability. Enhanced audio recording tools, including Local Capture, Voice Isolation, and an Input Picker, benefit podcasters and video conference users.
However, the update does not include external display support, leaving unused space that could be used for more spacious app windows or additional app instances. When connected to a monitor, the iPad simply mirrors its screen and does not offer extended display controls.
Despite this limitation, the user is extremely happy with the new features and design elements of iPadOS 26 on their budget iPad. The real upgrade in iPadOS 26 is the productivity boost, with a more macOS-like approach to handling in-app functionalities.
These changes are expected to be a welcome one for users within the Apple ecosystem, especially those who use a Mac for day-to-day work, regardless of whether they have an iPad Pro or the entry-level iPad. iPadOS 26 also introduces a new design language called Liquid Glass.
Over the past half a decade, the user often spends over a hundred dollars on a keyboard case for the baseline iPad. With these new productivity features, the entry-level iPad with iPadOS 26 is poised to become an even more valuable investment for users seeking a powerful yet affordable device for their workflow needs.
The new Menu bar design may not be a straightforward journey for developers, as some may be averse to the idea, especially if they want to maintain a consistent design language across different platforms. Nevertheless, the overall response to iPadOS 26 has been positive, with the user expressing their absolute love for the productivity tricks added to the entry-level iPad.
- The new multitasking features in iPadOS 26, such as full multitasking overhaul and Stage Manager multitasking, showcase the merging of gadgets and technology, making the entry-level iPad function similarly to a Mac.
- With the introduction of background tasks with Live Activities, enhancing audio recording tools, and a more macOS-like approach to handling in-app functionalities, iPadOS 26 underscores the potential of gadgets when combined with cutting-edge technology, transforming the entry-level iPad into a powerful tool for productivity.
