iPadOS 26 & Co.: Finally define which apps open which files

Apple's new operating systems iOS 26 (iPhone) and iPadOS 26 (iPad) not only have a new, glassy look (“Liquid Glass”), they also bring various improvements in terms of productivity. While the Apple tablet is finally getting a sensible window system, a whole range of practical innovations are also spilling over onto the iPhone. Both platforms are getting an improved files app (“Files”), which puts an end to various niggles that have existed for years.

“Open with” and default apps

Neither iOS nor iPadOS previously offered the option of specifying which file type was opened with which app. Apple seemed to decide this more or less arbitrarily. It often remained the last app installed for a particular file type, but sometimes an Apple application persisted. In files within iOS 26 and iPadOS 26, there is now the familiar “Open with” command from the macOS Finder, which can be accessed via the context menu. Suitable apps for the file variant then appear underneath. It is also possible to specify a default application for a file type so that the appropriate opening is used in the future.

There is also an improved list view on the iPad, which has customizable columns and can also collapse folders – Parts of this are also available on the iPhone. Finally, you can also color folders and add emojis, as Apple is allowing for the first time in macOS 26. All in all, this makes the Files app on the iPhone and iPad much more powerful. The only annoying thing at first is the new look, which includes more rounded corners and new fonts, some of which are quite thick and take up a lot of space. But you will probably have to get used to it, unless Apple makes any changes as part of the beta program.

Preview debuts on the iPhone

There had already been rumors about a dedicated preview app in the run-up to the presentation of the new operating systems. This is now not only available in iPadOS 26, but is also part of iOS 26. The range of functions is similar to the popular Mac version, including the ability to display and interact with PDFs and images. Here, too, Apple is clearly trying to standardize the platforms more closely.

iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 will be released in the fall, we are guessing September. There is currently a beta phase for developers, and from July the public will be able to test it as part of a public beta.

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