How to use Stage Manager on iPad for smoother multitasking

Apple iPad

Apple’s Stage Manager is designed to improve multitasking on both iPad and Mac by offering a more organized, desktop-style layout. If you’ve ever felt frustrated trying to juggle multiple apps on your iPad, Stage Manager can make your workflow smoother—once you know how to use it. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get started.

First things first, do ensure that your iPad is updated to the latest version. If not, then go to Settings > General > Software Update. Download and install the latest version (iPadOS 18.2 or later).

iPad Models that Support Stage Manager:

•iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd gen and later)

•iPad Pro 11-inch (all generations)

•iPad Air (5th gen)

•iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th gen and later)

•iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd gen and later)

•iPad Air (5th gen)

Here are the steps to turn on stage manager on iPad:

• Make sure your iPad is in landscape mode. Open Control Center (swipe down from the top-right). Tap the Stage Manager icon. Or go to Settings > Home Screen & Multitasking, and toggle Stage Manager on.

Stage Manager can look a bit daunting and overwhelming but don’t fret and follow these steps.

•The current app is centered. Recently used apps appear on the left sidebar.

•Tap another app to switch, or drag it to the center to open it.

•Group apps by:

•Tapping the three-dot menu > Add Another Window.

•Dragging apps from the Dock, Recent Apps, or App Library into the center.

•Resize windows by dragging corners. Tap the three-dot icon to Enter Full Screen.

•Group up to four apps together. Remove an app by tapping the three-dot menu > Close Window.

•To maximize screen space, hide Recent Apps or Dock in Settings > Home Screen & Multitasking.

With a little practice, Stage Manager turns your iPad into a near-desktop multitasking machine.