Is iOS 26 worth it? Why some iPhone users wish they hadn’t upgraded

Performance hits spark regret

Many iPhone users noticed rapid battery drain and sluggish performance after updating to iOS 26. Some phones overheated and lost charge far more quickly than before.

Apple notes that after a major update a device may perform background tasks, reindexing files, updating apps and assets, that can temporarily increase battery and CPU use.

While Apple says this often settles in a few days, many users reported longer-lasting slowdowns and battery drain in some cases.

Liquid glass divides opinion

Apple released iOS 26 in mid-September 2025, introducing its biggest visual overhaul in years, a glossy, translucent ‘Liquid Glass’ theme that refreshes menus and app chrome but has drawn mixed reactions from users.

Some enjoy the fresh modern appearance, while others find it difficult to read and harder on the eyes. Reports of text blending into backgrounds and icons appearing less clear have been common. Apple made some tweaks during testing, but the design continues to divide the user base.

Storage space proves challenging

Over-the-air installs of iOS 26 can require a substantial amount of free space; most guides recommend targeting roughly 15–20 GB of free space for a smooth OTA update, though exact needs vary by device and method (installing via a computer can require less on-device free space).

Some who lacked space altogether were unable to install it at all. This led to complaints that Apple’s software upgrades are leaving behind users with base-storage devices. For them, the storage demands outweighed the benefits of the update, making it a frustrating experience.

Support for older devices drops

Apple’s iOS 26 is compatible with iPhone 11 and later (including the second- and third-generation iPhone SE); older models such as the iPhone XR and XS are no longer listed as compatible for this major release.

This shift highlights Apple’s practice of eventually phasing out older hardware, pushing some customers toward buying newer devices to stay current with system updates.

Early bugs frustrate adopters

After launch, users reported a range of issues, app freezes, camera artifacts or delays on some devices, and CarPlay scaling or connectivity quirks, many of which Apple addressed or began addressing in iOS 26.0.1 and subsequent fixes.

Apple has acknowledged that early releases often include bugs and encouraged users to install upcoming fixes. For those who depend on their iPhones for daily reliability, these problems reinforced the sense that upgrading immediately may not have been worth the disruption.

Apple tweaks liquid glass

Apple responded to complaints about text readability by adjusting the transparency effect of the Liquid Glass design during beta testing. The frosted change improved contrast, making menus and notifications easier to read.

While some fans of the more dramatic glass look were disappointed, the adjustment reflected Apple’s attempt to balance aesthetics with usability. The change reduced some criticism, but it did not silence the broader debate about whether the design is truly helpful or just a cosmetic overhaul.

Useful new features stand out

Despite frustrations, several new tools in iOS 26 have drawn praise. Call screening helps block spam and unknown callers. Live translation now works across text messages and even in photos, breaking language barriers more easily. Visual intelligence also improves photo organization by recognizing content and grouping it automatically.

These features have been highlighted as practical improvements that go beyond appearance, giving users real reasons to appreciate the update even if performance and design remain contentious topics of discussion.

3D wallpapers impress users

iOS 26’s new dynamic spatial wallpapers create a layered, motion-aware effect on compatible devices; while newer models tend to show the best results, Apple’s compatibility page lists which models support the visual and performance features.

Users on social media have shared screenshots showing the effect in action. For many, the wallpapers are a fun upgrade that freshens the lock screen and adds a small but noticeable wow factor.

Downgrade is possible with backup

Users dissatisfied with iOS 26 can revert to iOS 18, but only if they archived a backup before upgrading. Backups made in newer versions cannot be restored to earlier ones due to Apple’s compatibility rules.

This has frustrated some users who updated quickly and later regretted the choice. Experienced users often recommend waiting before installing major software updates to avoid being stuck with bugs. Those who prepared backups had more flexibility in undoing the change if needed.

Mixed reactions online to iOS26

Social media responses to iOS 26 have been sharply divided. Some users praised the update as smoother and faster, especially on newer models. Others called it the worst update they had seen, citing lag and poor readability from the Liquid Glass interface.

Posts on Reddit and X highlighted the split between people excited by new features and those who felt their phones were harder to use. The mixed reviews show that the update has not been universally well-received.

Older models feel strain

Owners of iPhone 11 through 13 reported more problems than those using iPhone 16 or 17. Battery drain, overheating, and choppy visual effects appeared more often on older hardware. By contrast, newer phones seemed to run iOS 26 with fewer issues and smoother animations.

The difference highlighted how demanding the update can be on aging devices. For some, this reinforced the impression that Apple’s software advances are best experienced on newer hardware, pushing older phones closer to obsolescence.

Accessibility settings provide relief

Apple included accessibility options in iOS 26 to address readability complaints. Users can reduce transparency, increase contrast, or limit motion effects. These changes make the Liquid Glass design easier to manage for those with vision sensitivities or simply a preference for clearer text.

Adjusting these settings has already helped some users adapt to the new look without abandoning the upgrade. The settings show Apple anticipated criticism and provided tools to customize the update to individual needs.

Accessory issues raise concerns

Some third-party accessories, including certain MagSafe wallets and external camera tools, have faced compatibility problems after the iOS 26 rollout.

Apple advised checking manufacturer updates or firmware patches to ensure smooth use. Users who rely on accessories for work, photography, or storage found the hiccups disruptive.

Compatibility checks before upgrading were recommended by experts, especially for those with specialized gear. For many, accessory trouble added to the perception that iOS 26 was not yet fully polished.

Experts urge patience

Several tech analysts recommended waiting before installing iOS 26, particularly for users who rely on their iPhones professionally. They pointed out that major updates often include bugs that are quickly patched in early point releases.

By holding off, users can avoid disruptions while still receiving security updates on iOS 18. This cautious approach has been echoed in reviews, suggesting that while iOS 26 offers exciting features, it is not an essential upgrade right away for everyone.

That perspective ties closely to what new features will iOS 18 bring before Apple rolls out iOS 26, reminding users that the older version still has plenty to offer.

Balancing pros and cons

Deciding whether iOS 26 is worth it depends on individual needs. The update offers striking visuals, useful tools like call screening, and impressive wallpapers. At the same time, it has brought battery issues, glitches, and controversy over its design.

Users happy to explore new features may find the upgrade worthwhile. Those seeking reliability above all else might choose to wait for further fixes. Ultimately, Apple has once again made a bold update that is both praised and criticized.

This balance of promise and risk is also reflected as app developers may supercharge Apple Intelligence with iOS 26, opening the door to even more dramatic changes ahead.

What do you think about this? Let us know in the comments, and don’t forget to leave a like.

Read More From This Brand:

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This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.