what changes apple did to ipad multitasking ?

Asked on 06/13/2025

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In iPadOS 26, Apple introduced significant changes to multitasking on the iPad. These updates include:

  1. New Windowing System: A re-architected windowing system allows apps to be resized into windows that float above the wallpaper. This system is designed to maintain the simplicity of the iPad while providing more flexibility in multitasking. Users can now fluidly resize apps into windows using a grab handle in the bottom right corner of the app.

  2. Window Controls: New window controls appear on the top left of every window. These controls become larger when tapped, revealing their functionality, and expand further when pressed and held to show shortcuts for creating various window layouts.

  3. Additive Windowing Behavior: Apps that support multitasking should now open each document in its own window, allowing for multiple windows to persist until closed. This helps in managing multiple documents or tasks simultaneously.

  4. Expose Feature: A new Expose feature allows users to see all open windows with a swipe up from the bottom and hold, making it easier to switch between tasks.

  5. Menu Bar: A new menu bar is introduced, which is always available from the top of the screen, providing quick access to app features and enhancing the multitasking experience.

These changes are designed to enhance productivity and make multitasking on the iPad more powerful and intuitive. For more details, you can refer to the session Elevate the design of your iPad app (05:00).