5 Hidden iPadOS 26 Features That Transform Your iPad Into a Desktop
Hidden iPadOS 26 Features You Must Try Now

Apple's latest iPadOS 26 update brings powerful desktop-level capabilities to your iPad that most users haven't discovered yet. Bharat Sharma recently highlighted these transformative features on November 14, 2025, revealing how they can significantly enhance how Indians work, study, and express creativity.

Revolutionary Multitasking Capabilities

The new multi-window snap feature fundamentally changes how you handle multiple applications. Instead of struggling with clunky transitions between apps, you can now tap the familiar traffic light button at any app's top section and choose your preferred window arrangement.

Imagine having your research browser, notes application, and email client all visible simultaneously without constantly switching screens. What makes this particularly powerful is the ability to save these configurations as presets. Switching between your work setup and personal browsing mode becomes as simple as selecting a saved configuration.

Smarter Menus and File Management

A subtle but game-changing addition is the context-sensitive menu that appears when you swipe down from the screen's top edge. This intelligent menu adapts to whatever application you're currently using. When browsing in Safari, it displays quick links to bookmarks and open tabs, while creative apps show relevant keyboard shortcuts instead.

The completely overhauled Files app now incorporates functionality borrowed directly from macOS. You can organize your documents using color tags, sort them efficiently, and pin crucial folders directly to your Dock. For Indian students and professionals who regularly handle multiple projects, this means faster access to important documents and streamlined workflow.

Background Processing and Enhanced Controls

One of the most significant upgrades addresses a common frustration: waiting for large file transfers or video exports to complete. iPadOS 26 now handles these resource-intensive tasks in the background, allowing you to continue working in other applications without performance degradation.

The enhanced Dock functionality transforms it from a simple app launcher into a powerful productivity hub. You can now store more applications, folders, individual files, and even specific projects for instant access. This proves particularly valuable for creative professionals who need rapid access to ongoing work.

For users who connect external pointing devices, the new liquid glass cursor technology provides a remarkably smooth tracking experience that feels natural and responsive. If you temporarily lose track of the pointer, simply shaking your iPad brings it back into view—a small but incredibly useful feature during extended design sessions or presentations.

These features collectively represent Apple's commitment to transforming the iPad from an oversized smartphone into a genuine productivity partner. The emphasis on workflow efficiency and intuitive controls demonstrates understanding of how modern Indian professionals actually use their devices throughout the workday.