BIG CHANGES when iPadOS26 comes out in September 2025

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 iPadOS 26 is shaping up to be Apple’s most transformative update yet, and while it brings exciting new features, it also introduces changes that could feel unfamiliar at first. 

Let’s break it down:

🧠 Key Changes That May Affect Seniors

  • New Liquid Glass Design: A more translucent, dynamic interface that reacts to movement. It’s visually stunning but may take time to adjust to.
  • Windowing System: Apps can now be resized, tiled, and moved around like on a Mac. This replaces Split View and Slide Over, which many seniors are used to.
  • Menu Bar: A new swipe-down menu gives access to app commands. It’s helpful but adds a layer of complexity.
  • Live Translation: Messages, FaceTime, and Phone calls can be translated in real time — a huge win for communicating across languages.
  • Preview App: Seniors can now view, edit, and sign PDFs directly on their iPad, which is great for managing documents like medical forms.
  • Background Tasks: Apps can continue working while you do other things — useful for uploading photos or downloading files.

🧓 Potential Challenges for Seniors

  • Learning Curve: The new multitasking and design may feel unfamiliar, especially for those who prefer simplicity.
  • Device Compatibility: iPads older than the 8th generation won’t support iPadOS 26. Seniors using older models may need to upgrade.
  • Accessibility Adjustments: Some features like the new Braille experience and motion cues are helpful, but may require setup.

✅ How Seniors Can Prepare for the September Launch

  1. Check Compatibility
    Make sure the iPad is supported. iPadOS 26 works on:

    • iPad (8th gen and newer)
    • iPad Air (3rd gen and newer)
    • iPad mini (5th gen and newer)
    • iPad Pro (3rd gen and newer)

  2. Join the Public Beta (Optional)
    Starting in July, seniors (or their tech-savvy family members) can try the update early via Apple’s Beta Software Program. It’s a good way to get familiar — but only if they’re comfortable with occasional bugs.

  3. Explore Apple’s Accessibility Settings
    Features like VoiceOver, Zoom, Larger Text, and Motion Reduction can help ease the transition. These settings will likely be enhanced in iPadOS 26.

  4. Schedule a Guided Session
    Apple Stores and community centers often offer free workshops. Booking a session in late September could help seniors get hands-on support.

  5. Create a Simple Cheat Sheet
    Family members can help by printing a one-page guide with new gestures and icons. Familiarity breeds confidence.

  6. Back Up the iPad
    Before updating, ensure everything is backed up to iCloud or a computer. It’s a safety net in case anything goes wrong.


This video is aimed more at techies, but very interesting to hear their favourable comments on this major change to iPads. We will be running an iPad only clinic with our groups to help them transition to the new update, probably in October 2025.




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