Apple’s recent update to iPadOS 26 has not received the user reception the company anticipated. The overhaul aimed to improve multitasking capabilities by introducing a full-windowing system, a significant departure from the familiar split-screen and slide-over features. Within days of its release, many users expressed frustration, with some even seeking ways to revert to previous versions.
The new multitasking interface eliminates the traditional Split View and Slide Over functionalities that iPad users have come to rely on. This change has bewildered those accustomed to an intuitive three-dot menu that effortlessly facilitated split-screen switching. A user known as PilliPalli1 on Reddit articulated the challenges faced, stating, “I’ve been using the new iPadOS 26 update and honestly, multitasking with just the touchscreen has become a complete disaster.”
While the new system reportedly works well with a keyboard and mouse, it has drawn criticism when used solely with touch. PilliPalli1 acknowledged this divide, noting, “Yes, I’ll admit — the new windowing model feels a lot better if you’re using a mouse and keyboard.” This sentiment highlights a significant concern: the update may not cater effectively to users who prefer the device’s original touch capabilities.
The transition to the new multitasking system has proven complex for many users. According to RandomUser360_human on Apple’s support forums, the updated process for managing windows involves several steps: “First, swipe down from the top of the screen to show the menu bar. Tap the three dots (red, yellow, green like on Mac) to expand them. Tap and hold the green dot. It will show various windowing layouts; choose the one with two windows side by side.” This intricate method contrasts sharply with the previous drag-and-drop approach that allowed for instant split-screen arrangements.
Users are also experiencing frustrations with basic gestures that no longer function as expected. Another forum participant, seriouslyjohn, reported, “I can’t swipe back/forwards in Safari in split window mode. Instead, it resizes the window.” Additionally, the popular slide-over feature, which allowed small app windows to float over full-screen content, has been entirely removed. ConsistentUse5631, who provided their first feedback to Apple over this issue, expressed disappointment over losing the slide-over functionality.
The new gesture system has not been well received either. The replacement “flick” gesture has proven inconsistent, with Several-Signature583 noting, “Sometimes the flick action works, sometimes it doesn’t.” If successful, users must navigate a convoluted process involving multiple steps to achieve what was once a simple operation.
Despite the criticism, some users have embraced the changes. fernsie defended the update, stating, “I use touch and I love the new system.” Locked-in-red found the transition smooth on their 11-inch iPad Air, saying, “I mean, it works fine for me using touch. I’m having no issues at all.” Nevertheless, these positive remarks are overshadowed by the prevalent dissatisfaction expressed across various online platforms.
The multitasking overhaul is not the sole concern surrounding Apple’s latest software release. Reports indicate that iPhone users are encountering spatial scene issues with iOS 26. Additionally, iPad users are facing keyboard bugs that make typing unreliable, and several have reported problems with cellular connectivity following the update.
For those wishing to revert to the previous functionality, options are limited. Some users are downgrading to iPadOS 18 while Apple’s signing window remains open, a process that requires a level of technical expertise not possessed by all users. Others are actively voicing their concerns through Apple’s feedback channels, hoping for the company to introduce toggle options or restore beloved features in future updates.
As the backlash continues, it remains to be seen how Apple will respond to the concerns raised by its user base. The company may need to reconsider its approach to multitasking on the iPad to better align with the expectations of its diverse audience.
