Apple has released the iPadOS 26.2 Release Candidate for both developers and public beta testers. This build acts as the final test version before the update arrives for everyone later this month, alongside iOS 26.2 and the rest of Apple’s 26.2 platforms.
Apple usually ships the final version about a week after the RC, so iPadOS 26.2 should roll out to all supported iPads very soon, assuming testers do not uncover any last-minute bugs.
How to update to iPadOS 26.2 RC
Follow these quick steps if you are on the developer or public beta program:
- Open Settings on your iPad.
- Go to General > Software Update.
- Tap Beta Updates and make sure the iPadOS 26 Developer Beta or Public Beta channel is selected.
- Return to Software Update and wait for iPadOS 26.2 RC to appear.
- Tap Download and Install, keep your iPad on charge, and let the update complete.
Before you start, back up your iPad to iCloud or a computer so you can recover your data if something goes wrong.
iPadOS 26.2 multitasking upgrades
On iPad, the headline change is multitasking. iPadOS 26.2 restores familiar gestures that many users missed after the initial 26.0 transition. You can now drag and drop apps from the Dock, App Library, and Spotlight directly into Slide Over and tiled views, which brings back a more fluid way to place apps side by side or on top of your current window.
This makes it easier to set up common layouts like Mail next to Safari, or Notes floating in Slide Over on top of a full-screen app. The system still uses the newer window model, but the familiar drag gesture helps multitasking feel more natural on a touch-first device again.
More iPadOS 26.2 features
- Improved Slide Over and tiled views
You can pull apps from the Dock, App Library, or Spotlight and drop them at the screen edges to create Slide Over or tiled layouts. - Refined window management in Stage Manager
The restored drag gestures now work alongside the modern window system, so you can shuffle apps into different positions faster. - AirDrop one-time codes
An updated AirDrop option introduces temporary sharing with one-time codes, which helps you send items to nearby people without adding them to contacts. - Productivity boosts in Freeform
Freeform gains Tables support, making it easier to organize tasks or project notes inside your boards. - General performance and bug fixes
The RC continues polishing animations, stability, and small UI elements across system apps.
iPadOS 26.2 RC looks like a steady update that improves multitasking, tightens productivity tools, and adds perks like offline lyrics. If you install the RC, let us know in the comments how it runs on your iPad.
