iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 introduce a new feature that syncs sign-in details for captive Wi-Fi networks across iPhones and iPads.
As noted by Creative Strategies analyst Max Weinbach, when connecting to a captive network, such as those commonly found in hotels, gyms, coffee shops, airports, and other public places, login details entered on one device now sync to others running iOS 26 or iPadOS 26. For example, after connecting an iPad to a hotel's network, an iPhone prompts to reuse those details.
A captive Wi-Fi network requires users to complete a web form or login page before gaining internet access. This new feature pre-fills those forms across devices, streamlining the process. However, users still need to manually complete the captive portal process on each device.
Bloomberg's Mark Gurman first reported that Apple was planning this feature, which was not mentioned during the WWDC 2025 keynote. Weinbach's experience suggests it is working in the second iOS 26 developer beta.
The feature is also expected to extend to macOS 26. iOS 26 is expected to be released publicly in September, bringing this functionality to all supported devices.