Alongside iOS 16.1, Apple today released iPadOS 16.1, with the update coming after several months of beta testing. This is the first version of iPadOS 16 that has been available for Apple’s tablets, as iOS 16 was released on its own back in September. iPadOS 16 was delayed in order for improvements to be added to the Stage Manager feature.
The iPadOS 16.1 update can be downloaded on eligible iPads over-the-air by going to Settings > General > Software Update.
Those who have already updated to iOS 16 will be familiar with many of the features introduced in iPadOS 16.1 as the iPadOS 16.1 software adds the Mail, Messages, Safari, and other app updates that first debuted in iOS 16.
It introduces iCloud Shared Photo Library for easier sharing of photos and videos with friends and family, plus it brings Stage Manager. Stage Manager is compatible with the A12Z, A12X, M1, and M2 iPad Pro and iPad Air models. Stage Manager was originally limited to M1 iPads, but during the beta testing process, Apple was able to expand it to additional iPad Pros.
As a result of the expansion, the feature that allows it to work with a connected display has been removed and will be reintroduced in a later update. When that feature is re-added, it will only be available for the M1 and M2 iPad models.
Today’s update brings the Weather app to the iPad for the first time, plus it adds new Maps, Game Center, and Safari features, such as Passkeys. It also includes desktop-class apps with customizable toolbars, menus with better context, Find and Replace availability across apps, and more.
