Apple Launches iOS 26: What Users Need to Know
On September 15, 2025, Apple initiated the rollout of significant updates for its operating systems, collectively branded under the new version number: iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and watchOS 26. With millions of users expected to upgrade their iPhones and iPads, many will explore the innovative features such as Liquid Glass technology and enhanced multitasking capabilities. However, as is typical with major updates, a surge of complaints regarding battery performance is anticipated, to which Apple has provided an official response.
Battery Life Impact After Major Updates
Apple has released a support document advising users that upgrading to iOS 26 or similar significant updates may initially detract from your device’s battery life. Nonetheless, this decrease in performance is expected to be temporary, allowing users to adjust to the new features. Major updates like iOS 26 introduce numerous background and foreground processes, occurring even after the device returns to the home screen. These processes include data indexing, downloading essential updates, and refreshing apps, which collectively lead to a noticeable increase in battery usage as well as higher device temperatures.
Moreover, Apple acknowledges that certain new features may demand extra power. Despite this, the company assures users that the overall impact on performance and battery life is generally minimal and greatly varies from one user to another. This means that individual experiences may differ significantly based on personal usage patterns.
Official Insights from Apple
According to Apple’s official documentation:
Immediately after completing an update, particularly a major release, you might notice a temporary impact on battery life and thermal performance. This is normal, as your device needs time to complete the setup process in the background, including indexing data and files for search, downloading new assets, and updating apps.
New features are exciting and help you get even more out of your Apple product, though some may require additional resources from the device. Depending on individual usage, some users may notice a small impact on performance and/or battery life. Apple continually works to optimize these features in software updates to ensure great battery life and a smooth user experience.
Considerations Before Upgrading
If you are wary about potential impacts on battery life, you may consider postponing the upgrade. There’s no harm in waiting for a few additional updates for iOS 26, which are expected to refine the user experience and improve battery longevity. Apple gives its users the flexibility to continue using previous versions, such as iOS 18 or iPadOS 18, without being compelled to upgrade immediately. Many users choose this route, aligning with recommendations from our recent article on “10 Things to Do Before Installing iOS 26 on Your iPhone.”
Final Thoughts
Are you planning to upgrade your Apple devices to the latest “26”releases? If so, exercise patience and allow the system to complete its necessary background processes before reaching any conclusions regarding performance issues.
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