To Upgrade, or Not? iOS 26 Is Here with Major Changes… and Some Pitfalls
The arrival of iOS 26 marks the most dramatic overhaul for iPhones since iOS 7. Apple’s September 2025 rollout brings bold design choices and fresh features that promise to redefine the smartphone experience. Most importantly, the update integrates advanced AI capabilities along with an innovative Liquid Glass design that elevates the visual experience. Because it introduces a blend of aesthetics and functionality, many users find themselves excited about the future of iOS.
However, not every upgrade has been met with applause. Early adopters have reported issues that include sluggish performance and higher battery consumption, leading to regrets among a portion of the user base. Therefore, deliberating over both the new functionalities and the emerging drawbacks is wise before proceeding with this major update.
Which Devices Get iOS 26?
First and foremost, checking your device’s eligibility is critical. iOS 26 supports the iPhone 11 series and newer models, including the iPhone SE (2020) and later variants. Because Apple continues to push innovations that require enhanced hardware, users with older models such as the iPhone XS, XS Max, or XR will be left behind. This compatibility approach encourages a faster shift to newer technologies but may leave loyal users frustrated.
Besides that, confirming whether your device meets the performance benchmarks can save you from potential upgrade pitfalls. Many tech experts, including those from TechRadar and Cryptopolitan, provide detailed compatibility charts to help guide your decision. Therefore, always consult the manufacturer’s guidelines before upgrading.
What’s New in iOS 26?
Most importantly, iOS 26 introduces a complete interface revamp centered on the innovative “Liquid Glass” design. This fresh visual style is inspired by visionOS and brings rounded, translucent, and more interactive elements. Because this redesign emphasizes a more fluid transition between apps and features, the user experience feels both modern and intuitive.
In addition, the update features:
- Powerful Apple Intelligence integration for more personal and predictive interactions
- A fully unified app design to ensure consistency across all applications
- Redesigned Lock and Home screens that allow for greater personalization
- Stronger privacy and security settings to shield your data
- Revamped app functionalities in core apps like Messages, Phone, and Notes
These enhancements are designed to make the operating system not just aesthetically pleasing, but also platform efficient. Besides that, improvements focused on seamless integration with other Apple devices are particularly noteworthy, as discussed in the Apple Newsroom release.
Why Are Some Users Regretting the Upgrade?
Despite the innovative design and state-of-the-art features, early feedback from several users has revealed significant issues. Because the new visual effects are heavily resource-intensive, older compatible devices experience slowed app launches and increased lag. This has led some users to describe the upgrade as feeling more like a burden than a benefit. Therefore, those who value performance over visual flair might find the trade-offs problematic.
Additionally, increased battery drain and technical glitches have further fueled regret among early adopters. Most importantly, many have noted that the enhanced background activities, such as continuous update checks and always-on AI features, consume more power than expected. As a result, despite the attractive features, the overall performance balance creates hesitations among a significant segment of iPhone users.
1. Sluggish Performance on Older Devices
The impressive “Liquid Glass” visuals require substantial processing power. Because this is more demanding than previous iOS versions, users with slightly older but still eligible iPhones report noticeably slower response times. Most importantly, this slowdown can disrupt everyday tasks like messaging and app usage, making the experience less smooth than anticipated.
In addition, comparisons with earlier updates reveal that the new effects significantly impact battery life, leaving users to manage both performance hiccups and longer charging intervals. This dual challenge has sparked discussions among tech forums and video reviews such as the one on YouTube.
2. Increased Battery Drain
The integration of always-on background activities has led to complaints about reduced battery performance. Because many users depend on their devices to last throughout the day, the increased energy consumption is a major disadvantage. Most importantly, users have to be more cautious about their power settings, which can mean turning off useful functions to conserve battery life.
Furthermore, the situation is worsened by resource-heavy features that operate continuously. Therefore, proactive measures like disabling non-essential background refresh settings have become popular, as also suggested by reviews on platforms including YouTube.
3. Compatibility Headaches
Millions of iPhone users, particularly with models like the iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR, are unable to update to iOS 26. Most importantly, this decision by Apple forces loyal customers to either stick with older software or invest in new hardware. Because of this, many users feel alienated by what they see as an abrupt discontinuation of support for older devices.
Because compatibility issues affect everyday functionality, this divide in the user base has sparked significant debate among tech enthusiasts and critics. In addition, many in online communities recommend waiting for future updates to address these compatibility glitches, as noted by Cryptopolitan.
4. Storage and Upgrade Hurdles
The iOS 26 installer is roughly 3GB in size, but the overall upgrade process demands even more available storage. Because the installation requires ample free space to unpack the necessary files, users are often forced to delete valuable apps, photos, or videos. Most importantly, this unexpected need for storage can catch users off guard, leading to time-consuming preparations.
Besides that, the process mandates that your device maintains at least a 50% battery charge or remains connected to a power source throughout the upgrade. Therefore, both storage and power management become critical factors that complicate what should ideally be a streamlined update process.
5. App Compatibility and Bugs
As with any major software release, app compatibility remains a concern. Because third-party apps often take time to adapt to new operating systems, numerous applications have experienced crashes or glitches on iOS 26. Most importantly, issues with advanced widgets, home screen customizations, and camera apps have been reported by early testers.
Therefore, users might encounter unexpected disruptions in their daily activities until app developers roll out compatible versions. This period of adjustment is typical for major updates, and many experts recommend waiting until these bugs are thoroughly ironed out. Resources like Engadget provide timely updates on these compatibility fixes.
Should You Wait to Upgrade?
It is worth considering whether to jump into the upgrade immediately or wait a little longer. Because early adopters often face unforeseen bugs, waiting for the first few patch updates may be wise. Most importantly, patience can save you from the initial performance and compatibility challenges reported by many users. Thus, if your iPhone is not the latest model or if you rely heavily on certain apps, delaying the update might be the practical choice.
Additionally, several trusted sources, including MacRumors, suggest that Apple will roll out minor updates in the coming weeks to resolve initial issues. Therefore, unless you are eager to experience the fresh design and AI integrations immediately, waiting could offer a more stable user experience.
Best Practices Before Upgrading
Before initiating the upgrade process, it is crucial to take a few preventive steps. Most importantly, back up your data using iCloud or a computer to prevent any loss of information during installation. Because unexpected issues can arise, having a backup ensures that you can quickly revert to a previous state if needed.
Besides that, ensure your device has at least 50% battery or is plugged in, and free up additional storage space to facilitate a smooth upgrade process. Furthermore, checking for the latest app updates via the App Store can help minimize compatibility issues post-installation. Therefore, following these best practices can significantly reduce the risks associated with the update.
Final Thoughts
iOS 26 promises a transformative experience with its striking redesign and enhanced AI capabilities. Most importantly, for users with new or high-performing devices, the upgrade can provide a noticeable boost in functionality and style. However, increased resource demands, battery drain, and compatibility hurdles mean that not every iPhone owner will benefit immediately from the fresh experience.
Because every major update comes with a balancing act, carefully considering your current device’s state and your personal needs is essential. Therefore, if you value stability and performance, it might be better to wait until initial bugs are resolved. In contrast, if you are excited about the innovative design and cutting-edge features, upgrading could be exactly what you need to elevate your iPhone experience.
References
- TechRadar – iOS 26: everything you need to know
- YouTube – Don’t Update to iOS 26 Until You Do This
- MacRumors – Here’s When iOS 26 Rolls Out
- Cryptopolitan – Millions of iPhone users to miss out as iOS 26 upgrade brings new features
- Apple Newsroom – Apple elevates the iPhone experience with iOS 26
- Engadget – iOS 26 Compatibility and Release Updates
