Byte-Sized Brief

• iPadOS 26 introduces four apps to iPads.
• The new additions: Journal, Games, Preview, and Phone.
• Features roll out this fall.

If you've ever wished your iPad were more like a Mac, Apple's WWDC 2025 brings some good news. With iPadOS 26, iPads gain a new Liquid Glass redesign, enhanced audio and video recording, and a powerful windowing system, plus four apps that Mac users have enjoyed for quite some time: Journal, Games, Preview, and Phone.

Previously, the Journal and Phone apps were limited to iPhone users, but with the forthcoming update, you'll be able to jot down thoughts, doodle with Apple Pencil, and include photos and videos in entries. The Phone app's arrival includes Call Screening and Hold Assist. And for folks who want to stay in touch, the Apple Games app coming to iPad includes an option to call a friend to join you. Finally, the Preview app for iPad introduces a more streamlined way to edit and annotate a PDF or create sketches on the fly. Sounds like it's going to be a great update to us!

The Bottom Line

With iPadOS 26, app additions that aren't new to the Apple ecosystem but brand-new to the iPad will offer more Mac-like versatility. These apps, on top of the Liquid Glass redesign and window management, audio, and video enhancements, could supercharge your tablet.