iPadOS 26.2 significantly improves Slide Over and Split View

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iPadOS 26.2 brings another important update for multitasking on the iPad. After iPadOS 26 redesigned many workflows and completely removed Slide Over, key features that had long been standard were gone. Slide Over returned in a revised form with iPadOS 26.1. The third beta of iPadOS 26.2 now builds on this foundation, expanding Slide Over and Split View with essential tools that are crucial for smooth workflows. The update clearly demonstrates how strongly Apple listens to user feedback.

Multitasking has been one of the iPad's greatest strengths for years. While the switch to the new windowed mode in iPadOS 26 brought more flexibility, it removed familiar gestures and functions that were deeply ingrained in everyday use. This led to significant criticism, especially since Slide Over was completely removed and Split View was only partially functional. Apple already addressed the first part of this feedback with iPadOS 26.1. iPadOS 26.2 Beta 3 goes a step further, closing additional gaps that hindered many users' workflows. The update brings back features that were long taken for granted and integrates them seamlessly into the new windowing system.

New features for Slide Over and Split View in iPadOS 26.2

The most significant change concerns the activation of Slide Over and Split View. In iPadOS 26.1, it was necessary to use the green light icon in the window control to put an app into Slide Over mode. While this worked, it didn't offer the same level of convenience as before. A key feature was completely missing: the ability to simply drag an app from the Dock to directly activate Slide Over or Split View.

iPadOS 26.2 restores this behavior. Apps can once again be dragged and dropped from the Dock. This also works from Spotlight. A clear visual preview now appears when dragging, showing whether the window will open as Slide Over, Split View, or full screen. This behavior closely resembles the implementation in iPadOS 18 and makes the workflow noticeably faster and more direct.

Improvements for Split View

Split View benefits equally. Placing a second app next to an existing window works seamlessly again. The preview responds smoothly to the app's position and shows directly how the future layout will look. This results in more natural, fluid multitasking and reduces the number of steps that were sometimes necessary in iPadOS 26.

Restrictions still apply

Despite these useful improvements, certain limitations remain. Slide Over still doesn't allow stacking multiple apps. This multi-app mode was once one of the most powerful tools for iPad multitasking and is still missing. Furthermore, Slide Over can only be used in the new windowed mode. It cannot be used in the classic full-screen mode. This means that iPadOS 26 continues to maintain a clear separation between full-screen view and windowed work.

An important step towards a familiar multitasking experience.

Even though not all previous features have returned, iPadOS 26.2 represents a noticeable improvement. Many of the original user interface elements are back and integrate seamlessly into the new system. This results in a multitasking experience that feels familiar while simultaneously building upon the technical foundation of iPadOS 26.

iPadOS 26.2 enhances the everyday use of the iPad

iPadOS 26.2 brings back key features for Slide Over and Split View, significantly improving multitasking. The restoration of drag-and-drop gestures from the Dock and Spotlight closes one of the biggest gaps in the initial versions of iPadOS 26. Despite remaining limitations, the system is moving closer to what many have been accustomed to for years. iPadOS 26.2 demonstrates that consistent user feedback is directly incorporated into development, resulting in smoother, more efficient, and more practical multitasking on the iPad. This update is an important step towards a mature iPadOS 26 and strengthens the foundation for future versions. The best products for you: Our Amazon storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Shutterstock / DenPhotos)