Do iPads Use iOS or iPadOS? A Practical Guide for 2026
Discover whether iPads run iOS or iPadOS, how the two systems differ, and what this means for features, updates, and app compatibility in 2026.
iPadOS is a version of Apple's mobile operating system designed for iPad devices. It is a distinct OS from iOS, optimized for larger screens and multitasking.
What is iPadOS and how it relates to iOS
According to Tablet Info, iPadOS is the operating system that powers iPad devices. It is built on the same core as Apple's iOS but has been optimized for larger screens, multitasking, and Apple Pencil interactions. In 2019 Apple split iPadOS from iOS to highlight the iPad’s unique capabilities, such as Split View, Slide Over, and robust file management. Tablet Info notes that iPadOS continues to evolve with annual updates that add iPad-first features while keeping compatibility with most iOS apps. The result is an operating system that behaves like iOS beneath the surface but offers a distinct user experience on iPad hardware. For everyday users, this means apps launched from the Home screen, the same App Store, and a familiar multitasking paradigm—just with more room to work.
Beyond the visual differences, iPadOS preserves core iOS primitives such as iCloud, Continuity, Handoff, and Universal Clipboard. That continuity between devices makes it easy to start a task on an iPhone and finish it on the iPad. The design ethos prioritizes touch, keyboard, and pencil input while still maintaining a familiar ecosystem of apps and services. In short, iPadOS is a tailored version of iOS built to unlock the bigger screen, more robust multitasking, and deeper accessory support that iPad users expect. Tablet Info's framework emphasizes practical steps to use these capabilities effectively in daily life.
Questions & Answers
What is iPadOS?
iPadOS is Apple’s tablet operating system designed specifically for iPad hardware. It shares a core with iOS but adds iPad-optimized features such as enhanced multitasking, a Files app tailored for larger screens, and Pencil support. It exists as a distinct OS to better leverage the iPad’s capabilities.
iPadOS is Apple’s tablet operating system, built to take full advantage of iPad hardware with features like multitasking and Pencil support.
Do iPads still use iOS?
No, iPads run iPadOS, a separate but related operating system derived from iOS. The name reflects the iPad’s unique capabilities, though the underlying technologies remain connected and compatible with many iPhone apps.
No. iPads use iPadOS, a distinct OS built on iOS core but tailored for iPad.
Differences iPadOS vs iOS
iPadOS adds features that are especially useful on larger screens, such as advanced multitasking, a desktop-style Files app, and better external display support. It also focuses on Pencil input and a home screen designed for the iPad’s layout, while keeping much of iOS functionality intact.
The main differences are multitasking, file management, and Pencil support tailored for iPad.
iPadOS device support
Apple designs iPadOS to run on current iPad models, with older devices sometimes dropped from the latest major versions. Checking compatibility before upgrading ensures your device will benefit from new features without performance issues.
Check your iPad model to see if it supports the latest iPadOS version before upgrading.
iOS apps on iPadOS
Most iOS apps run on iPadOS thanks to shared development frameworks. Some apps have iPad specific layouts or features, but the vast majority work with a larger display and different input methods.
Yes, most iOS apps work on iPadOS, often with improved layouts for the iPad screen.
Update iPadOS steps
To update, go to Settings > General > Software Update. If available, follow the on screen prompts. You can also enable Automatic Updates to streamline future updates.
Go to Settings, then General, and select Software Update to install the latest iPadOS.
Highlights
- Use iPadOS for iPad specific features like multitasking and Apple Pencil.
- Most iOS apps run on iPadOS due to shared codebase.
- Update regularly to access new iPadOS features and security fixes.
- Explore multitasking layouts and external display support for productive workflows.
- Back up before updating to avoid data loss.