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New Features, Compatible Devices & How to Update
Introduction:
Apple has officially released iPadOS 26, the most ambitious update yet for iPads, bringing a fresh design, new multitasking tools, and deeper integration of Apple Intelligence. Apple +2 MacRumors +2 In this article, we’ll walk through the new features, device compatibility, security updates, and a step-by-step guide on how to update your iPad.
What’s New in iPadOS 26:
1. Liquid Glass Design Overhaul
iPadOS 26 introduces a new visual style called Liquid Glass, with more transparent UI elements, fluid animations, and smoother transitions. Apple+2MacRumors+2
2. Revamped Windowing & Multitasking
One of the biggest enhancements: iPadOS 26 brings a more powerful windowing system. Apps can float in adjustable windows, making the iPad feel more like a full-fledged productivity machine. Apple+2MacRumors+2
3. Apple Intelligence & Smarter Tools
New AI-powered features are embedded deeply. Expect improved Live Translation, smarter suggestions, and more context-aware actions. Apple+2MacRumors+2
4. Upgraded Core Apps: Files, Preview, and More
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The Files app gets enhanced support for external drives and more robust file operations. Apple
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Preview is better for annotating documents and interacting with PDFs and images. Apple
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Other system improvements across audio, video, and system-level services. Apple
5. Security & Privacy Updates
Apple lists a number of security fixes and improvements in the official About the security content of iPadOS 26 document. Apple Support
Also, recent updates like iPadOS 18.7 include fixes for out-of-bounds writes, kernel issues, and WebKit hardening. Apple Support+1
Compatible iPads & Supported Versions:
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iPadOS 26 is built on Apple’s newer year-based versioning scheme. Wikipedia+2Apple+2
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If your iPad supports iPadOS 18, it likely supports iPadOS 26. 9to5Mac+2MacRumors+2
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Some models may lose support for certain newer features due to hardware constraints. MacRumors+1
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As of September 2025, Apple released iOS 18.7 / iPadOS 18.7 for security updates. Apple Support
(You may include a table of iPad models and whether they support iPadOS 26.)
How to Update to iPadOS 26
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Backup your iPad via iCloud or Finder / iTunes.
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Connect to Wi-Fi and plug in your charger (updates are large).
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Go to Settings → General → Software Update. 9to5Mac+3Apple Support+3MacRumors+3
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If iPadOS 26 is available, tap Download & Install.
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After downloading, tap Install Now and let the device reboot.
You can also turn on Automatic Updates so that your iPad installs system updates overnight. Apple Support
Why You Should Update (or Wait)
Pros
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Access to new features like the windowing system, smarter AI, better multitasking.
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Security patches and bug fixes.
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Ensures future app compatibility.
Considerations / Risks
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Some older iPads may get slower performance due to hardware limits.
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Some features may be limited to newer iPads with stronger chips.
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Always backup — in rare cases updates can fail or introduce bugs.
Highlights Of Blog: iPadOS 26, iPad update 2025, latest iPad OS version, how to update iPadOS 26