Exploring the Features of macOS 26 and iPadOS 26 in Their Public Beta Versions
The latest public betas for macOS 26 and iPadOS 26, unveiled by Apple, bring a host of key features and changes to both operating systems.
macOS 26 Public Beta
The new macOS 26 introduces a visually striking design called Liquid Glass. This design features a glossy, translucent effect across the system, with rounded corners and layering for an open and edge-to-edge feel. The initial version of Liquid Glass was met with some feedback from developers, leading to a toned-down version in the current beta[1][3].
Users can now place widgets directly on the desktop, rather than confining them to the Notification Center. These widgets have the Liquid Glass aesthetic and can be customized in terms of appearance[3]. App icons are now displayed in an updated squircle shape, giving apps a more uniform look. The Dock also adopts the Liquid Glass effect, aligning with the system's new visual style[3].
The lock screen has been upgraded with customizable typefaces for the clock, allowing users to personalize the lock screen before logging in[3]. While there are no significant changes to the menu bar itself, the overall UI improvements contribute to a more streamlined user experience.
iPadOS 26 Public Beta
iPadOS 26 introduces a brand new windowing system similar to macOS. Users can resize and place app windows freely, without needing a separate mode like Stage Manager. Windows remain their size and position when relaunched[2]. Each window now includes familiar traffic light controls to close, minimize, or tile windows. Additionally, Exposé allows users to view all open windows with a simple gesture, enhancing multitasking capabilities[2].
The iPad now features a menu bar accessible by swiping down from the top of the screen or moving the cursor near the top. This menu bar hosts app-specific controls, replacing the traditional keyboard shortcut menu[2]. The Files app has been enhanced with customizable folder colors and icons, offering a more personalized file management experience[2].
In iPadOS 26, you cannot access other app icons until you swipe up from the bottom. Launchpad in macOS 26 has been modified to a smaller, iPhone-like single window. However, the old Launchpad can be brought back in macOS 26, at least for now.
Other Notable Changes
The new iOS 26 beta includes the ability to screen calls from people not in your contacts and the option to silence unknown callers on iPhone. All AI summaries generated by Apple Intelligence will now include a note that they were crafted with Apple Intelligence. The new beta of iOS, iPadOS, and macOS allows users to choose if they want notifications for news apps or communication apps.
The latest iPad Pro and iPad Air support the new versions of the Magic Keyboard with a full function row. Macs will find small updates to make Spotlight actually useful through sending quick texts or emails without having to go through each respective app. iPadOS 26 does not have smart tiling for automatically arranging apps, but it allows viewing all open apps at once, similar to the iPhone.
It is recommended to back up important files before trying the macOS 26 beta. Any beta software may introduce new glitches. Apple's Liquid Glass redesign continues to be divisive in macOS 26. Apple Intelligence isn't turned off completely and is being pushed onto devices again. The new iPadOS does not allow resizing of any window as small or large as desired.
In summary, both operating systems focus on visual and functional improvements, with macOS emphasizing its new Liquid Glass design and iPadOS aligning more closely with macOS in terms of window management and user interface elements.
Technology enthusiasts at Gizmodo are excited about the future of tech as both macOS 26 and iPadOS 26 bring significant improvements to their respective operating systems. The new macOS features a visually striking Liquid Glass design, customizable lock screen, and updated app icons, while iPadOS 26 introduces a similar windowing system to macOS, customizable folder colors, and a new menu bar [Gizmodo's Tech Review].
