Apple iOS 26 Release: Features, Updates, Issues

Apple has officially rolled out iOS 26, one of its most ambitious updates yet, bringing a redesigned Liquid Glass interface, powerful customization tools, expanded Siri intelligence, and deeper integration with iPadOS and CarPlay. While the update has been received with excitement, it has also sparked mixed reactions from users due to design changes and reports of battery drain.

In this blog, we cover everything you need to know about iOS 26—its features, compatible devices, installation process, new design language, controversies, and expert/user reviews.

Why iOS 26 and Not iOS 19–25?

One of the biggest surprises was Apple’s jump straight from iOS 18.7 to iOS 26. According to Apple, the numbering aligns iOS with macOS Tahoe 26 and watchOS 26, creating consistency across its ecosystem. This shift also symbolizes a major design evolution, similar to the leap from iOS 6 to iOS 7 a decade ago.

The Headline Feature: Liquid Glass Design

Apple’s new Liquid Glass design language has divided users.

• What it is: App icons, widgets, and notifications now appear with translucent, fluid-like reflections that shift dynamically with your wallpaper and ambient light.

• User reactions:

  • Some call it “beautiful and futuristic.”

  • Others complain it looks “too reflective” or even “dizzying” in dark mode.

• Customization: You can adjust the clarity levels—from Dark Tinted to Crystal Clear—making it less distracting.

Top New Features in iOS 26

1. Advanced Siri Capabilities

Siri can now perform multi-step tasks with a single command. For example:

• “Siri, plan my evening” → sets reminders, queues a playlist, turns on Do Not Disturb, and dims lights.

• Siri now works offline for many commands and integrates more deeply with apps like Messages, Notes, and Calendar.

2. CarPlay 2.0

• A revamped dashboard supports multiple screens in next-gen cars.

• Real-time weather, smart widgets, and enhanced navigation.

• Third-party apps like WhatsApp and Spotify now work seamlessly in the CarPlay interface.

3. Battery Enhancements (and Issues)

• New “Adaptive Power Saver” mode (exclusive to iPhone 17 series) that learns usage patterns.

• But many users on older iPhones report faster battery drain. Apple says this is “normal” in the first days as iOS re-indexes files.

4. Spam Call Blocker

• A machine-learning powered call filter automatically detects and blocks spam/robocalls.

• Reported as one of the most useful features by early adopters.

5. Group Chat Revamp

• Messages now include reactions with sound effects, custom backgrounds, and AI-powered emoji suggestions.

• New Live Collab feature for editing notes, photos, and documents directly inside iMessage.

6. Ringtones & Sounds

• Apple has added 20 new ringtones and notification sounds—a nostalgic update welcomed by many users.

Supported Devices for iOS 26

iOS 26 supports iPhone XS and newer. Full list includes:

• iPhone 17, 16, 15 series

• iPhone 14, 13, 12, 11 series

• iPhone XS, XR, SE (2nd & 3rd Gen)

Older devices like iPhone X and iPhone 8 have been dropped.

How to Install iOS 26

• Go to Settings > General > Software Update.

• Tap Download and Install.

• Ensure your iPhone has at least 50% charge or is plugged in.

• Backup your data to iCloud/PC before installing.

• Installation takes 25–40 minutes depending on model and internet speed.

Criticism and Issues So Far

• Battery Drain: Multiple outlets (Times of India, CNET, CNBC TV18) reported users complaining of faster battery usage.

• Design Confusion: Some users dislike the shimmering Liquid Glass look, describing it as “unnecessary eye candy.”

• Performance Slowdowns: A few older iPhone models (like iPhone 12/13) reportedly feel sluggish post-update.

• Dark Mode Visuals: PCMag notes that icons in dark mode may cause eye strain for some.

Expert Reviews at a Glance

• Ars Technica: Calls iOS 26 “practical yet playful.”

• MacStories: Praises deeper productivity integration with iPadOS.

• Fast Company: Criticizes Liquid Glass as “beautiful but broken.”

• TechRadar & The Verge: Say iOS 26 feels both futuristic and repetitive.

User Reactions on Social Media

• @gregjoz (Apple’s Greg Joswiak): “Our new design with Liquid Glass is here! It’s beautiful, expressive, and instantly familiar.”

• @MKBHD (Marques Brownlee): Shared a video rundown of the best new features.

• Users on X: Mixed—some love the new customization, others plan to wait before upgrading due to battery concerns.

Tips Before Upgrading

• Backup your device.

• Check if your essential apps are updated for iOS 26.

• Be prepared for higher battery drain during the first 48–72 hours.

• Explore customization—tinted windows, new wallpapers, and ringtones can make the update feel fresh.

Conclusion

iOS 26 is bold, ambitious, and polarizing. The Liquid Glass design marks the biggest UI shift since iOS 7, while smarter Siri, spam-blocking, and CarPlay upgrades make it practical. However, battery concerns and mixed reviews around design may make some users hesitant.

If you’re on iPhone 16 or 17, upgrading is a no-brainer. For older models, it may be wise to wait for iOS 26.1 updates to fix early issues.