iPadOS 26: Ready for Laptop Duty?

Summary

In this review of iPadOS 26, the user explores how the update transforms the iPad into a more capable multitasking device. Highlighting features like enhanced window management, improved multitasking, and a better Files app, the reviewer tests whether the iPad can replace a laptop for daily tasks. While the iPad's design and versatility shine, with benefits like portability, media capabilities, and stylus support, the reviewer concludes that it can serve as an alternative to a laptop but isn't a full replacement for everyone. The iPad’s strength lies in its versatility, offering a great balance of work and play.

Takeaways

• 😀 The release of iPadOS 26 at WDC this year made it feel like Apple has finally transformed the iPad into a true computer-like device.
• 😀 The iPadOS 26 update significantly improves multitasking and window management, allowing for resizing windows and easy multitasking similar to a Mac.
• 😀 While the new multitasking features are a big improvement, they still aren't as powerful as on a Mac, with some apps not responding in real-time during window resizing.
• 😀 The iPad now supports up to eight open windows at once, which is a considerable upgrade over the previous four-window limit.
• 😀 Despite the major improvements, the iPad still isn't designed to fully replace a laptop for most people, especially for specific tasks like video editing.
• 😀 While multitasking and window management on iPadOS 26 is much better, some small limitations, like not being able to have two audio sources at once, still exist.
• 😀 The iPad offers a more focused and enjoyable experience when used as a single-app, full-screen device, which reduces distractions compared to a laptop.
• 😀 The iPad is a great lightweight alternative to a laptop, with a beautiful display and a thin, sleek form factor, making it easier to carry around.
• 😀 Accessories like a keyboard and mouse bring the iPad closer to a laptop experience, but ultimately, they make the iPad feel more like a traditional laptop in terms of weight and size.
• 😀 The iPad excels as a versatile device for media consumption, drawing, and even taking photos or videos, thanks to its stylus support and built-in cameras.
• 😀 While iPads are more versatile than laptops in some areas, for most users who just need a computer, a laptop is still the better choice for consistent performance and comfort.

Q & A

What is the primary focus of the video?

The video focuses on reviewing iPadOS 26 and evaluating its new features, particularly in terms of whether the iPad can replace a MacBook as a full-time productivity device.

How does the new window management system in iPadOS 26 compare to previous versions?

The new window management system in iPadOS 26 is dramatically better than before, with features like resizable windows, a menu bar, and multitasking support. It’s designed to offer a more Mac-like experience with overlapping windows and a more intuitive control interface.

What are some of the key multitasking features introduced in iPadOS 26?

iPadOS 26 introduces the ability to open up to eight windows at the same time, with improvements in resizing, managing windows, and recalling app groups. It also supports multitasking in smaller devices like the iPad Mini, though the experience is less practical due to the screen size.

Does the iPadOS 26 update eliminate all of the limitations from previous versions?

No, some limitations remain, such as challenges with managing file locations in the Files app and some minor user interface quirks. However, many of the previous restrictions, like multitasking constraints, have been improved.

What challenges did the reviewer face while using the iPad as a laptop replacement?

The reviewer encountered several challenges, including difficulty in managing two simultaneous audio sources, occasional problems with the iPad’s keyboard case being top-heavy, and issues with file organization in the Files app.

What is the reviewer’s overall stance on using the iPad as a full-time computer?

The reviewer believes that while the iPad is now much more capable with the new iPadOS 26 features, it’s not quite a full laptop replacement for everyone. The question becomes not whether the iPad can replace a laptop, but whether one wants to use an iPad for certain tasks instead of a laptop.

How does the reviewer compare the iPad experience with a MacBook?

The reviewer appreciates the iPad's lightness, display quality, and versatility. While the iPad is great for many tasks, there are still moments when the MacBook feels superior, especially for intensive tasks like video editing and tasks that require advanced multitasking.

How does multitasking on the iPad compare to a Mac?

Multitasking on the iPad is improved with iPadOS 26, but it still has limitations compared to a Mac. For instance, the iPad can handle fewer windows at a time, and some apps may not respond to resizing in real time. However, it’s significantly better than earlier versions of iPadOS.

What are the advantages of using the iPad over a laptop?

The iPad is more versatile in certain areas, offering a touchscreen-first experience, superior portability, and additional features like stylus support and cellular connectivity. It also provides a more focused, distraction-free environment with a single full-screen app.

What is the final recommendation regarding iPad versus laptop for users?

The reviewer recommends that users who only need a traditional computer should stick with a laptop. However, if versatility and additional features like media consumption, portability, and creative tools are important, the iPad can serve as an excellent alternative.