One of the most significant additions iPadOS 18 is the Calculator app, which includes a Math Notes feature. Math Notes allows users to write or type out math expressions and see instant solutions. It also includes graphing capabilities, enabling users to generate graphs of equations with a single tap. Basic and scientific calculator functions are also available, along with history tracking and unit conversions.
iPadOS 18 also introduces improvements for handwritten notes taken with Apple Pencil. Smart Script is a new feature that smooths and straightens handwriting in real-time, making notes more legible. Users can also edit handwritten text, add space, scratch out sentences, or paste typed text into handwritten notes. The Notes app also gains new features for typed text, such as the ability to collapse sections and highlight text in various colors.
In terms of personalization, iPadOS 18 offers more ways to customize the Home Screen, app icons, and Control Center. Users can now arrange app icons and widgets freely on the Home Screen, and choose from light, dark, or tinted appearances for app icons. Additionally, users can opt for larger icons without names for a cleaner look. The Control Center has also been redesigned to provide quick access to commonly used controls, and users can now add controls from third-party apps using a new Controls API.
Navigation on iPad is improved with a new floating tab bar. This tab bar stays above app content and integrates with the sidebar, allowing users to reorder or add tabs for enhanced in-app customization.
The Photos app has also been redesigned to take better advantage of the iPad’s larger display. The new design features a simplified grid view, theme-based collections, and a carousel view for daily highlights. Users can also pin favorite collections and enjoy autoplaying content throughout the app.
Messaging in iPadOS 18 gets several updates, including new text formatting options, animated text effects, and redesigned Tapbacks. Users can also schedule messages to be sent later.
Safari benefits from new features such as Highlights and a redesigned Reader experience. Safari uses machine learning to summarize content, display locations, and enable music playback from articles.
iPadOS 18 strengthens user privacy with a range of new controls. These controls allow users to lock apps and hide them from the Home Screen, restrict app access to specific contacts, and pair Bluetooth accessories privately without revealing all device information. Locked apps are moved to a hidden folder, ensuring notifications and content remain private.
Apple Intelligence is another new feature in iPadOS 18. It includes a variety of writing tools that can be used to rewrite, proofread, and summarize text across various apps. Additionally, Image Playground allows users to create images in different styles, while Memories in Photos can generate storylines from photos and videos based on descriptions. Siri also becomes more advanced with more natural and contextually relevant interactions, and the ability to interact with Siri using text.
Other notable updates in iPadOS 18 include a Passwords app for storing credentials securely, enhancements to SharePlay with improved screen sharing and remote control features, a Freeform app for easier idea organization and presentation, a Game Mode for a more immersive gaming experience, personalized Spatial Audio, integration between Calendar and Reminders, new features in Apple Maps, and accessibility features such as Eye Tracking and Vocal Shortcuts.
The developer beta of iPadOS 18 is now available through the Apple Developer Program, with a public beta coming next month. The official release is expected this fall and will be supported on a wide range of iPad models, including iPad Pro, iPad Air, iPad, and iPad mini. Apple Intelligence features will be available as part of a beta program on iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and devices with M1 and later chips.