iPadOS 26.1 Release Candidate Ships, Public Launch Imminent
Apple has released the Release Candidate for iPadOS 26.1, signaling the software update is nearing its public debut and bringing a host of new features to iPad users.
The update introduces several key changes, including a new ‘Tinted’ setting for Liquid Glass that increases opacity, the return of Slide Over as a multitasking tool, and expansion of Apple Intelligence to eight additional languages. Users will also find improvements to the Music app, allowing track changes via swipes on the MiniPlayer, alongside various smaller user interface and feature refinements. The return of Slide Over, even in a limited capacity—now supporting only one app at a time—is expected to significantly improve workflow for many iPad users.
Beta testing indicates a focus on performance, with bug fixes and stability improvements being a priority in recent builds. Apple continues to refine its operating systems to maintain a competitive edge in the tablet market, a sector increasingly focused on productivity and user experience. For more information on Apple’s ecosystem, visit Apple’s official website.
The arrival of the Release Candidate suggests a public launch within the next week, allowing all iPad users to benefit from these enhancements. You can learn more about iPad features here.
Apple has not provided a specific launch date, but the release of the RC typically precedes a public rollout within seven days.
Apple has just shipped the iPadOS 26.1 RC (release candidate), which means the software update is now on the cusp of its public launch.
New features in iPadOS 26.1 so far
iPadOS 26.1 is launching soon for all users, but for today, beta testers can access Apple’s latest build.
When the update ships, it will bring several noteworthy new features for users:
- Liquid Glass now offers a new ‘Tinted’ setting that increases opacity
- Slide Over is back as a unique multitasking tool
- Apple Intelligence expands to eight new languages
- Music lets you swipe on the MiniPlayer to change tracks
- along with several smaller UI and feature changes
Thanks to the addition of Slide Over, Apple’s round of 26.1 updates is especially exciting for iPad users.
It’s worth noting that Slide Over no longer supports putting multiple apps in a stack, instead being limited to one app at a time.
Regardless, I’ve been using the feature regularly throughout the iPadOS 26.1 beta and am very happy to have it back—even in its more limited form.
Today’s version of iPadOS 26.1 should provide the best experience yet for beta testers in terms of performance. Bug fixes and stability have clearly been a focus for Apple recently in its 26.1 betas. But we’re unlikely to find any other user-facing changes in today’s release.
Now that the RC of iPadOS 26.1 is here, the software’s public launch should arrive within the next week or so.
Have you been using the iPadOS 26.1 beta, and if so, what’s performance been like? Let us know in the comments.
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