Podcast Summary: Hands-On Apple 187: Windowing System in iPadOS 26

Introduction

In the July 2025 episode of Hands-On Apple, hosted by Micah Sargent, the focus shifts to the latest advancements in Apple’s operating systems unveiled at the Worldwide Developers Conference. Specifically, the episode delves into the newly introduced windowing system in iPadOS 26, offering listeners an early glimpse into the enhanced multitasking capabilities awaiting iPad users.

Overview of iPadOS 26 Windowing System

Micah begins by highlighting the aesthetic and functional upgrades in iPadOS 26. He notes the iPad's refreshed, "more glossy and glassy" appearance, attributed to the integration of the new Liquid Glass setup across Apple platforms.

Micah Sargent [02:45]: "The iPad is a little bit more glossy and glassy, thanks to the Liquid Glass setup that is now part of iPadOS and the rest of Apple's platforms."

Enhanced Multitasking Features

The core discussion revolves around the revamped windowing system, designed to streamline multitasking on the iPad. Micah demonstrates how each application now features a distinctive curved icon in the bottom right corner, signaling its capability to enter windowed mode.

Micah Sargent [03:10]: "That new little shape indicates that the app is able to go into windowed mode. You should see this in every app across every use case."

He elaborates on the intuitive resizing and arrangement of windows, drawing parallels to macOS's familiar Stoplight Icons (red, yellow, green buttons) for window management. This similarity aims to provide a seamless experience for users transitioning between Mac and iPad.

Micah Sargent [04:05]: "The stoplight buttons, red, yellow, and green, are the ways to control windows on macOS. And it works the same or mostly the same on iPadOS."

Practical Demonstration

Micah proceeds with a live demonstration, showcasing the ease of resizing and moving application windows. By clicking and dragging the curved icon, users can adjust the window size or convert an app back to full-screen mode effortlessly.

Micah Sargent [05:20]: "I can see the red button lets me close, the yellow button lets me downsize the window, and the green button lets me make the window larger, smaller, or arrange it."

He further explores multitasking by opening multiple applications, such as Safari and Music, and manipulating their window sizes and positions. This flexibility allows for a more dynamic and productive user experience, akin to a desktop environment.

Menu Bars and Keyboard Shortcuts

A significant addition in iPadOS 26 is the introduction of Menu Bars, reminiscent of those found on macOS. Micah demonstrates accessing application-specific settings directly from the menu bar, enhancing accessibility and efficiency.

Micah Sargent [07:15]: "Menu bars have come to iPadOS. I can see the Safari name here and choose Safari Settings. I can adjust the extensions for Safari, manage profiles, and make changes there as I see fit."

Additionally, the integration of keyboard shortcuts, such as Command + Comma for quickly accessing app settings, is highlighted as a favorite new feature, particularly benefiting power users who rely on keyboard navigation.

Micah Sargent [08:10]: "That's one of my favorite new features, is being able to quickly access the settings for an app with that keyboard shortcut of command comma."

Future Outlook and Conclusion

Concluding the episode, Micah emphasizes the evolving nature of iPadOS 26, acknowledging that Apple may refine the windowing system further before its full release in the fall. He assures listeners that despite potential changes, the foundational improvements lay a strong groundwork for enhanced multitasking on the iPad.

Micah Sargent [09:00]: "I'll be keeping an eye on how things change, morph, improve, or don't improve over time as the hardworking developers at Apple continue to polish this in time for the fall release."

He invites listeners to stay tuned for more in-depth analyses and previews as the operating system approaches its official launch, making the episode a valuable resource for both early adopters and those awaiting the final version.

Micah Sargent [09:30]: "Thanks so much for tuning in to this week's episode of Hands on Apple. Back next week with another episode and I'll see you then."

Conclusion

This episode of Hands-On Apple provides a comprehensive early look at the windowing system in iPadOS 26, showcasing Apple's commitment to enhancing multitasking and user experience on the iPad. Micah Sargent's detailed walkthrough, coupled with practical demonstrations and insightful commentary, equips listeners with a clear understanding of the upcoming features and their potential impact.

For tech enthusiasts eager to maximize their iPad's capabilities, this episode serves as an essential preview of what’s to come, ensuring they are well-prepared to leverage the new windowing system upon its release.