iPhone Battery Draining? Apple Explains iOS 26 Update Effects

Apple has confirmed that its newly released iOS 26 update may cause temporary battery and performance fluctuations on iPhones. The announcement follows widespread reports from users experiencing faster battery drain and slower device responsiveness immediately after installing the update.

In an official support document, Apple clarified that short-term performance and battery impacts are common following major software updates. The company explained that devices often need time to complete background processes, including indexing files for search, updating apps, and downloading new system assets. Some newly added features may also demand additional system resources, which can briefly reduce battery life or affect device speed.

iOS 26 introduces significant changes to the Battery section in the Settings app. The update now includes a system-driven recommendation feature that alerts users when apps or processes consume unusual amounts of power. The Settings app compares current battery usage to expected patterns, highlighting anomalies with an orange indicator.

Unlike previous iOS versions, where users had to manually review extensive battery data, iOS 26 simplifies the process. Apps that use disproportionate energy relative to actual usage, such as the Weather app, are now clearly marked. High-use apps like Instagram, which match typical usage patterns, are not flagged, ensuring more accurate diagnostics.

Apple’s changes allow users to quickly identify applications causing excessive drain, potentially extending device battery life and improving overall performance. The feature is designed to make troubleshooting faster and more efficient, especially for users who rely heavily on their iPhones throughout the day.

Since the update, multiple iPhone users have shared concerns on social media and tech forums. Reports include rapid battery drops from full charge to below 80% in less than an hour, unexpected reductions in battery health percentages, and devices losing power faster during light use. Some users also noted slower system animations and minor delays in switching themes or navigating menus.

A Times of India technology team member testing iOS 26 observed that devices took longer than usual to revert to selected themes, supporting user reports of temporary performance slowdowns.

Apple advises users that these effects are expected in the short term and should stabilize once background processes are completed. Users are encouraged to monitor battery behavior over several days before raising concerns.