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    How to Use Stage Manager on iPad for Multitasking

    Stage Manager is a multitasking feature on newer iPads that lets you work with multiple apps in resizable windows on screen at the same time — like a computer desktop.

    3 min read 5 stepsApril 19, 2026Verified April 2026
    1

    Turn on Stage Manager

    ~26s
    Swipe down from the top-right corner to open Control Center. Look for a box icon with three small rectangles in the left column — that is Stage Manager. Tap it to turn it on. A checkmark or filled icon means it is active. You can also go to SettingsMultitasking & GesturesStage Manager.

    Quick Tip

    Quick Tip: You can add the Stage Manager toggle to Control Center for faster access at SettingsControl Center → add Stage Manager.

    2

    Open your first app group

    ~18s
    With Stage Manager on, open any app. It appears as a window in the center of the screen. On the left side, you will see a strip showing your recent apps. Tap any recent app on the left to switch to it. The app you were using moves to the left panel.
    3

    Add a second app to your current window group

    ~25s
    While one app is open in the center, tap the three dots (...) at the top of the current app window → "Add Another Window." Alternatively, drag an app icon from the Dock at the bottom onto the current app. Both apps appear on screen together in the same group.

    Quick Tip

    You can have up to 4 apps in one group. Tap and drag window edges to resize each app within the group.

    4

    Create different app groups

    ~18s
    Each collection of apps on screen is a "group." When you switch to a different app in the left panel, you create a new group. Stage Manager remembers each group so you can switch between them — for example, switching from your "email + notes" group to your "photos + web" group instantly.
    5

    Turn off Stage Manager when done

    ~16s
    Open Control Center and tap the Stage Manager icon again to turn it off. Your iPad returns to its normal full-screen app switching. Stage Manager turns off automatically if you restart the iPad. You can leave it on or off permanently based on your preference.

    You Did It!

    You've completed: How to Use Stage Manager on iPad for Multitasking

    Need more help? Get Expert Help from a TekSure Tech

    Stage Manager is a multitasking feature Apple introduced in iPadOS 16 that makes using an iPad feel more like a computer. Instead of switching between apps one at a time, you can have multiple apps open in overlapping windows on the same screen — similar to how a Mac or Windows computer works.

    With Stage Manager, you can have four apps visible and usable at the same time. A sidebar on the left shows your other recent apps and groups, and you can switch between them by tapping.

    This is especially useful if you want to reference a document while writing an email, look at photos while creating a presentation, or compare two web pages side by side.

    Stage Manager is available on: - iPad Pro (all models with M1 chip or later — that is 2021 and newer iPad Pro) - iPad Air with M1 or later (2022 and newer iPad Air) - iPad mini 6th generation or later (with iPadOS 16 or later)

    If your iPad is older or does not have an M1 chip, Stage Manager is not available. You can still use Split View (two apps side by side) instead.

    You can use Stage Manager with or without a keyboard and trackpad, but it is most useful when you have a Magic Keyboard or similar accessory attached.

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    Official Resources

    How-To GeekAARP Technology TipsTom's Guide — Tips

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    How to Use Stage Manager on iPad for Multitasking — Step-by-Step Guide | TekSure