Latest news with #multitasking
Geeky Gadgets
2 days ago
- Geeky Gadgets
iPadOS 26: Your iPad Just Became a Mac
Apple's iPadOS 26 introduces a significant update that brings the iPad closer to functioning as a true desktop alternative. By focusing on multitasking, file management, and productivity tools, this update redefines how users interact with their iPads for both professional and personal tasks. With a range of new features designed to enhance efficiency and flexibility, iPadOS 26 positions the iPad as a more versatile and powerful device. The video below from Macrumors gives us a detailed look at these features on the iPad. Watch this video on YouTube. Enhanced Multitasking: A New Level of Productivity Multitasking capabilities in iPadOS 26 have been significantly improved, offering users greater control and flexibility. The introduction of resizable app windows allows you to adjust the size of apps to suit your workflow. Whether you're comparing documents, editing photos, or managing spreadsheets, resizing windows ensures that your workspace adapts to your specific needs. Another key feature is window tiling, which enables you to organize your screen by splitting it into halves, thirds, or quarters. This functionality is particularly useful for managing multiple apps simultaneously, such as referencing notes while drafting an email or comparing data across different sources. Additionally, the macOS-inspired 'Expose' feature simplifies app switching by letting you group and toggle between open apps with ease, making sure a seamless multitasking experience. Streamlined Interface with the Hidden Menu Bar The addition of a hidden menu bar in iPadOS 26 enhances the user interface by providing quick access to app-specific commands without cluttering your workspace. By swiping down or moving the cursor to the top of the screen, you can reveal the menu bar when needed. This feature mirrors the functionality of macOS, offering a cleaner and more organized workspace. The streamlined design not only improves aesthetics but also boosts productivity by keeping essential tools within easy reach. Files App: Advanced Organization and Customization File management on the iPad takes a significant leap forward with the updated Files app in iPadOS 26. The app now includes several enhancements that make organizing and accessing files more intuitive and efficient: Customizable folders with emoji icons and color options for quick identification. with emoji icons and color options for quick identification. Resizable columns in list view, allowing you to tailor the layout to your preferences. in list view, allowing you to tailor the layout to your preferences. The ability to set default apps for specific file types, streamlining your workflow. for specific file types, streamlining your workflow. Quick access to frequently used folders by adding them directly to the dock. These updates bring the Files app closer to the functionality of desktop file managers, bridging the gap between iPadOS and traditional operating systems. Whether you're organizing work documents or managing personal files, these features ensure a smoother and more efficient experience. Preview App: Professional Tools at Your Fingertips iPadOS 26 introduces a full-featured Preview app, bringing desktop-level functionality to the iPad. This app allows you to view and edit PDFs and images with a range of tools designed for productivity: Markup tools for annotations and edits. for annotations and edits. Autofill for completing forms quickly and accurately. for completing forms quickly and accurately. Digital signatures for signing contracts and other documents. The integration of Apple Pencil support further enhances the app's capabilities, allowing precise annotations and edits directly on your iPad. Whether you're reviewing contracts, filling out forms, or marking up images, the Preview app eliminates the need for third-party software, making it an essential tool for professionals and casual users alike. Background Task Processing: Seamless Multitasking One of the most practical updates in iPadOS 26 is the ability to handle resource-intensive tasks in the background. This feature allows you to perform demanding operations, such as exporting videos or rendering large files, while continuing to use other apps without interruptions. By allowing seamless multitasking, this update ensures that your iPad remains a powerful and efficient tool for both work and leisure. Bridging the Gap Between iPadOS and macOS With iPadOS 26, Apple has taken significant steps to align the iPad experience with macOS, making the device more capable and versatile than ever before. Features such as resizable windows, window tiling, and the hidden menu bar bring desktop-like functionality to the iPad, while enhancements to the Files app and the introduction of the Preview app further expand its capabilities. The addition of background task processing ensures that the iPad can handle complex workflows without compromising performance. Whether you're a professional seeking a portable workstation or a casual user looking for greater flexibility, iPadOS 26 adapts to your needs, transforming the iPad into an indispensable tool for modern productivity. By narrowing the gap between tablet and desktop functionality, this update solidifies the iPad's position as a powerful and versatile device for a wide range of users. Enhance your knowledge on iPadOS 26 by exploring a selection of articles and guides on the subject. Source & Image Credit: MacRumors Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPad, Guides, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Android Authority
2 days ago
- Android Authority
I tried to replace my aging Pixelbook with an iPad on iPadOS 26; here's how it went
Oliver Cragg / Android Authority It's been nine years since Apple released an ad for the 2016 iPad Pro, which asked, 'What is a computer?' That ad has been mocked ever since, as the iPad has always been seen as too compromised compared to a MacBook, Chromebook, or Windows laptop to serve as a full computer replacement for most people. However, iPadOS 26 brings some significant changes to the iPad, and I think it might be enough for the iPad to replace my aged Google Pixelbook. So, I installed the iPadOS 26 developer build on my 2020 iPad Pro 11-inch. I know — it's the last iPad Pro to use an A-series Apple chip rather than an M-series, so it won't be lightning fast, especially on a developer build. However, I won't hold any lag against it here, as this iPad has always experienced issues in the first few betas but has always been perfectly smooth by the time the stable update is released. No, today we'll be evaluating the changes to iPadOS 26 to see if they're conducive to getting work done. Proper Windows Zac Kew-Denniss / Android Authority Apple attempted to improve the multitasking experience on the iPad in 2022 by introducing Stage Manager, but it didn't make the kind of difference I needed. There was no easy way to snap windows together, and most of the time, my apps would overlap each other. All of that changes in iPadOS 26, which has overhauled everything to resemble macOS. Each window features traffic light buttons, which minimize, maximize, or close the app. Long-pressing them displays a window-snapping menu with templates, allowing you to arrange your windows using the most common layouts. It's a massive improvement to the iPad experience, even on the 11-inch model I'm using. I split-screen and window apps on the 6.2-inch Galaxy S25, so I can get plenty done on this 11-inch iPad. Zac Kew-Denniss / Android Authority Another Mac-inspired addition is the menu bar, which you can summon from the top of the screen with a swipe or by nudging the cursor against the top edge. I've never used macOS, but from what I can tell, it has most of the same functionality, letting you perform certain tasks and actions within the app you're using. What I found most useful was using it to remind me which keyboard shortcuts are bound to certain functions. I was born and raised a Windows user, so getting used to new keyboard commands was a learning curve. The mouse loses aim-assist Zac Kew-Denniss / Android Authority It's been five years since the iPad gained support for mice and trackpads, but it's only now that it's even remotely usable. In its first iteration, the cursor was just a dot that would automatically snap to the nearest icon. It was like playing a video game with aim-assist cranked too high, and it felt unnatural. The cursor would also disappear each time an icon was selected, with the chosen icon bouncing slightly to indicate that it'd been highlighted. In iPadOS 26, we have a normal arrow as a cursor. It's as simple as that; the dot has become an arrow, and it moves where I want it to without infuriatingly snapping or turning invisible. On its own, this would have been enough for me to give using an iPad for work another try, but combining it with the changes made to window management, I got a fresh feeling operating system where mouse and keyboard support no longer feel like an afterthought. Will I be working from an iPad? Dhruv Bhutani / Android Authority No, but I could. I know — I just sang the praises of how good iPadOS 26 is for stuff like this, and there's even more I didn't go into, like the fact the iPad version of Safari can handle Wordpress in a way Android's Chrome app can't, or that mobile Safari supports most of my extensions. The reason I won't be switching to the iPad for work, and still plan to buy a new laptop, comes down to pricing. I love my iPad, but it's old. It can do everything I need it to when I use it as a tablet, but pushing it as hard as I did this week felt like too much. The A12Z Bionic and 6GB of RAM struggled to handle all my tabs, the 11-inch screen felt cramped, and the fact that it can only mirror its screen to a monitor, rather than providing a dual-screen experience, limited its usefulness to me. So, why not buy a bigger and faster iPad Pro? I can get a used/refurbished 12.9-inch M1 iPad Pro, with a five-year warranty, for £550. That's not bad, but we'd need to add the Magic Keyboard to that, which is another £145 for a used unit. That's £695 for a used setup, whereas I can get Snapdragon-powered Windows laptops with 4 times the storage and twice the RAM brand new for £500. Even if I wanted to go with Apple, a used M1 MacBook Air, with the same five-year warranty, is only £475. If you already own a big, newer, M-powered iPad, then iPadOS 26 has just turned it into a very capable laptop replacement. For me, it's something I could use on my current iPad when there aren't other options, but a new laptop still makes the most sense for my use.
Geeky Gadgets
3 days ago
- Geeky Gadgets
How iPadOS 26 Transforms the iPad
iPadOS 26 brings a host of fantastic updates to Apple's budget iPad, significantly improving its functionality for productivity, gaming, and media consumption. With advanced multitasking features, hardware enhancements, and redesigned software tools, the $300 iPad becomes a compelling alternative to laptops and premium tablets. These updates make the device more versatile and accessible, appealing to a wide range of users. The video below from Max Tech gives us a look at the new iPadOS 26. Watch this video on YouTube. Enhanced Multitasking for Seamless Productivity Multitasking takes a significant leap forward in iPadOS 26, addressing a key limitation of earlier budget iPads. The introduction of Stage Manager allows you to open multiple apps in resizable, free-floating windows, a feature previously exclusive to higher-end iPads. This makes it easier to perform tasks like editing documents while referencing a browser or participating in video calls, creating a more intuitive and efficient workflow. Additionally, background task support ensures uninterrupted productivity. For example, you can download large files, render videos, or sync data in the background while continuing to work on other applications. These multitasking improvements make the iPad an excellent choice for students, professionals, and multitaskers managing diverse responsibilities. Hardware Upgrades Deliver Superior Performance The latest budget iPad is equipped with the A16 Bionic chip and 6GB of RAM, offering a noticeable boost in speed and responsiveness. Whether you're switching between apps, running resource-intensive software, or gaming, the upgraded processor ensures smooth and reliable performance. This hardware upgrade significantly enhances the device's ability to handle demanding tasks. Storage capacity has also been doubled, with the base model now offering 128GB. This expanded storage reduces reliance on cloud services, providing ample space for apps, documents, and media. Together, these hardware improvements elevate the iPad's capabilities, making it a more practical device for both work and entertainment. Redesigned Software Tools for Improved Usability iPadOS 26 introduces a range of redesigned software tools aimed at enhancing productivity and usability. The Files app now features a more intuitive interface, complete with a menu bar and improved navigation. This makes organizing, searching, and sharing files faster and more efficient, streamlining your workflow. Another notable addition is the Preview app, which allows you to view and annotate documents without needing third-party software. Whether you're reviewing PDFs, marking up images, or collaborating on projects, this tool simplifies on-the-go tasks. The enhanced app switcher further improves navigation, allowing you to move between tasks with minimal effort and greater efficiency. Expanding Potential for Productivity and Entertainment For users seeking a laptop-like experience, the iPad now supports the Magic Keyboard Folio, which includes a physical keyboard and trackpad. This accessory transforms the iPad into a productivity powerhouse, ideal for tasks like typing reports, editing spreadsheets, or managing emails. The combination of iPadOS 26 and the Magic Keyboard Folio makes the device a strong contender for those looking to replace a traditional laptop. Gamers will also appreciate the iPad's improved performance. The A16 chip and support for 60fps gameplay deliver smooth and responsive experiences in popular titles like *Call of Duty Mobile*. Whether you're a casual gamer or enjoy competitive play, the iPad provides a capable and enjoyable gaming platform. Balancing Affordability with Practical Trade-offs While the budget iPad offers impressive features, it does come with some compromises. The non-laminated display, while functional, lacks the premium feel and reduced glare of higher-end models. Additionally, advanced features such as ProMotion and Face ID remain exclusive to more expensive devices in Apple's lineup. However, these trade-offs are balanced by the iPad's affordability. At $300, it delivers exceptional value for users who need a reliable device for everyday tasks without the premium price tag. The combination of performance, functionality, and cost-effectiveness makes it an attractive option for a wide range of users. A Well-Rounded and Accessible Device With iPadOS 26, Apple's budget iPad takes a significant step forward, offering a blend of enhanced multitasking, upgraded hardware, and redesigned software tools. These improvements make the device a versatile solution for productivity, gaming, and entertainment. Whether you're a student, professional, or casual user, the budget iPad delivers a cost-effective and capable option that meets diverse needs without compromising on quality. Here are additional guides from our expansive article library that you may find useful on iPadOS 26. Source & Image Credit: Max Tech Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPhone, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Android Authority
3 days ago
- Android Authority
Move over Open Canvas, this could be the best way to multitask on a foldable
TL;DR vivo's upcoming X Fold 5 features a new multitasking system called 'Atomic Workbench' capable of running up to five active apps simultaneously. 'Atomic Workbench' enables one dominant app view while keeping others minimized but live, improving upon OnePlus' Open Canvas approach with a better layout for engaging more apps. The vivo X Fold 5 launches on June 25 in China. OnePlus pioneered the Open Canvas feature with the OnePlus Open foldable, allowing users to open three apps simultaneously on their foldable's inner display. This approach stood out as one of the best ways to multitask on Android foldables and tablets, as it opened up two apps side by side, with the third app tucked away but ready to be in focus at any moment. Now, vivo's upcoming X Fold 5 foldable threatens to usurp OnePlus' multitasking crown with its 'Atomic Workbench' feature. vivo's product manager Han Boxiao has shared a demo of the X Fold 5's multitasking system, called '原子工作台,' which translates into 'Atomic Workbench.' The demo video shows that the Honor of Kings game occupies most of the screen real estate, but not all of it. There's empty space on the sides, but more notably, we see four apps hanging out in the top ~30% of the screen. Tapping open any of these apps brings them into focus in a similar layout. However, apps like DeepSeek and WPS Spreadsheet push the multitasking pane to the left side (probably because they open in portrait orientation). We also spot a drag handle on the bottom right corner, albeit the demo doesn't showcase its use. This multitasking solution is genius because it allows one app to dominate the display, while still giving you a good peek at what the other apps are up to. The cherry on top is that all five apps continue running actively, even when out of focus. For all practical purposes, the apps still very much consider themselves in focus. We can see Honor of Kings continues to proceed with the gameplay, and DeepSeek keeps answering the query even when the user has switched away. Essentially, vivo has improved upon OnePlus' Open Canvas experience by focusing more on one app while keeping the rest open in smaller, switchable windows. The layout is also an improvement from Android's conventional multi-window experience, which recently adopted the 90:10 multitasking split after being inspired by Open Canvas on candybar phones. However, I can't help but notice the similarities with iPadOS' Stage Manager, which focuses on app groups, while vivo's multitasking implementation appears to focus on individual apps. It remains to be seen how easy it is to activate this multitasking layout, if it can run with fewer than five apps, and if users can resize or reposition the layout. The vivo X Fold 5 is set to launch on June 25 in China. It's unclear if the foldable will launch in international markets, but we would love to see the 'Atomic Workbench' multitasking feature reach more phones and tablets. Other notable features on the foldable include claimed Apple Watch compatibility (!!!), IP5X, IPX8, and IPX9 ratings for improved durability, and an impressively thin and light frame for a foldable. Got a tip? Talk to us! Email our staff at Email our staff at news@ . You can stay anonymous or get credit for the info, it's your choice.
Geeky Gadgets
3 days ago
- Geeky Gadgets
iPadOS 26: A Breakthrough Update That Redefines the iPad
The release of iPadOS 26 brings a host of new features and improvements designed to elevate the iPad experience across productivity, personalization, and security. Whether you use your iPad for professional tasks, creative endeavors, or everyday activities, this update introduces tools and enhancements that redefine how you interact with your device. Below is an in-depth look at the most impactful changes and their practical benefits in a new video from Christopher Lawley. Watch this video on YouTube. Enhanced Multitasking for Seamless Productivity iPadOS 26 introduces significant advancements in multitasking, making it easier than ever to manage multiple tasks simultaneously. The updated Stage Manager allows you to resize app windows with greater precision, offering a desktop-like experience that enhances productivity. Switching between tasks is now more intuitive, allowing smoother transitions whether you're editing documents, attending virtual meetings, or managing spreadsheets. The improved split-screen and slide-over modes further streamline workflows, allowing users to run multiple apps side by side without compromising performance. These features are particularly beneficial for professionals handling complex projects or users who rely on their iPad for both work and personal tasks. By simplifying multitasking, iPadOS 26 ensures that your device adapts effortlessly to your needs. Personalization Redefined with Advanced Customization Customization takes center stage in iPadOS 26, offering users greater control over their device's appearance and functionality. Redesigned widgets provide more flexibility, allowing you to place them anywhere on the home screen or lock screen for quick access to essential information. The update also introduces new lock screen options, allowing you to personalize wallpapers, fonts, and layouts to reflect your style. Enhanced Focus modes take personalization a step further by letting you create tailored profiles for different scenarios, such as work, leisure, or study. These profiles automatically adjust notifications, app arrangements, and even the home screen layout, helping you stay focused and minimize distractions. Whether you're working on a deadline or unwinding with your favorite apps, iPadOS 26 ensures your device is optimized for the moment. Performance and Compatibility: A Faster, More Versatile iPad Performance improvements are a cornerstone of iPadOS 26, delivering faster app launches, reduced latency, and smoother system responsiveness. These enhancements ensure a seamless experience, whether you're tackling resource-intensive tasks like video editing or simply browsing the web. Even older iPad models benefit from these optimizations, extending their usability and maintaining consistent performance across the board. The update also expands compatibility with external devices and accessories, making the iPad more versatile than ever. Improved support for external monitors allows for higher resolutions and extended desktop functionality, ideal for multitasking or creative work. Additionally, enhanced compatibility with keyboards, styluses, and other peripherals ensures a seamless experience for users who rely on these tools for productivity or artistic projects. Upgraded Native Apps and Ecosystem Integration iPadOS 26 brings meaningful upgrades to native apps, enhancing their functionality and usability. Key improvements include: Files App: Advanced search filters and organizational tools make locating and managing documents more efficient. Advanced search filters and organizational tools make locating and managing documents more efficient. Safari: New collaboration features, such as shared tab groups, streamline teamwork and improve productivity. New collaboration features, such as shared tab groups, streamline teamwork and improve productivity. Notes: Enhanced features like tags, smart folders, and improved handwriting recognition boost organization and accessibility. Beyond individual apps, iPadOS 26 strengthens integration across the Apple ecosystem. Features like Universal Control and Handoff allow seamless transitions between your iPad, iPhone, and Mac, allowing you to start a task on one device and continue it on another without interruption. This interconnected experience enhances productivity and convenience for users who rely on multiple Apple devices. Security and Privacy: Protecting Your Data Security and privacy remain top priorities in iPadOS 26, with new features designed to safeguard your personal information. Advanced encryption ensures that your data is protected, while app tracking transparency gives you greater control over how your information is shared. On-device intelligence processes sensitive data locally, reducing reliance on cloud storage and minimizing potential vulnerabilities. These measures provide peace of mind whether you're browsing the web, using third-party apps, or managing sensitive documents. By prioritizing security and privacy, iPadOS 26 ensures that your personal information remains safe in an increasingly connected world. A Comprehensive Update for Every User iPadOS 26 delivers a well-rounded update that caters to the diverse needs of modern iPad users. From enhanced multitasking and advanced customization to improved performance, app integration, and robust security features, this update ensures that your iPad remains a powerful and adaptable tool. Whether you're a professional seeking greater efficiency, a creative user exploring new possibilities, or someone looking for a more personalized experience, iPadOS 26 offers meaningful improvements that enhance every aspect of your device. Dive deeper into iPadOS 26 with other articles and guides we have written below. Source & Image Credit: Christopher Lawley Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPad, Guides Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
