iPadOS 26 to bring back Split View

They are bringing back what made the iPad a computer first.

Recent iPadOS 26.2 betas, along with reports from news outlets like 9to5Mac, suggest that iPadOS 26.2 will bring back some multitasking features, which include Split View. This, along with Slide Over, is a feature that many users missed in iPadOS 26 and iPadOS 26.1, as the feature was removed in order to prioritize the new Windowed App mode.

Many users are not happy with the removal, not because the Windowed App mode is bad, but mostly because its removal took away flexibility. The options are now limited to the Windowed App mode, Stage Manager, which was already disliked by many, and the Full Screen App mode.

Thankfully, Apple did listen and brought back Slide Over in iPadOS 26.1, but many users were still looking for Split View. It was the first real multitasking feature for the iPad, and it was simple and easy, somewhat unlike the Windowed App mode or Stage Manager.

Especially on a small screen, like on the 11-inch iPads, Stage Manager and Windowed App mode don't work well. On a connected display, or on a 13-inch iPad, the extra screen real estate allows for a better experience because apps are not cramped. However, most people use the smaller screens, so an experience tailored for that is better.

Although it is better to have the Split View option, the Windowed App mode should still exist, as it is the best option for someone who has more screen real estate or is connected to a keyboard or display. It is good that Apple will now have an option for everybody and users can multitask easier.

Apple's iPadOS is a great operating system for tablets and allows for rich multitasking experiences. We will have to wait and see what Apple does soon.