• Source:JND

Apple recently unveiled iOS 26 - one of its most significant iPhone software updates in recent memory - which features the much-hyped liquid glass theme, adding visual depth and polish to iPhone interface. Alongside iOS 26, iPadOS 26 also introduces similar design tweaks.

But before users rush to install the new update, Apple has issued a battery life advisory that is worth noting.

Apple’s Battery Life Warning for iOS 26

In an updated support page published on September 15, Apple noted that some users might experience a temporary decrease in battery life immediately after updating to iOS 26.

As per Apple:

“This is normal, as your device needs time to complete the setup process in the background.”

As such, tasks like reindexing files, optimising photos, and syncing apps run silently after major software updates consume additional power during their initial days of usage. Once these background processes have completed, iPhones should regain their usual endurance levels.

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Assuring news comes mere days before Apple officially unveils the iPhone 17 lineup and iPhone Air on September 19, both models featuring iOS 26 from day one of sale.

Apple iOS 26 Compatible iPhones

Apple iOS 26 Compatible iPhones Apple continues its longstanding trend of long-term software support with iOS 26, making this release one of their more advanced releases yet still providing compatibility for devices released as early as 2019. 

Here’s the complete list of iPhones eligible for iOS 26:

- iPhone Air, iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max

- iPhone 16e, iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max

- iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max

- iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max

- iPhone 13 mini, 13, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max

- iPhone 12 mini, 12, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max

- iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max

- iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd Gen)

Noteworthy is the iPhone 11 series' inclusion of iOS 26 support; likely marking their last major OS upgrade.

How To Install iOS 26 on your iPhone

First make sure that your device is eligible for the iOS 26 update and check the above mentioned list. If your device is not in the list above, then I feel sorry for you as you will not receive the update. As the update is officially out, you can simply install the update by following the steps below:

- Head to the Settings of your iPhone.

- Go to General.

- Then you will see the option Software Update.

- There you will see the “Update Now” button, click on it.

- You will be prompted to download and install the update.

Voila, now you have iOS 26 up and running on your smartphone.

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Final Thoughts

Apple's new liquid glass look isn't just about making things pretty. It's about a super smart interface that moves and reacts to what you do with your device. Think of it as a totally immersive iOS experience! And with all the cool AI stuff powered by Apple Intelligence, plus long-term support for your devices, iOS 26 really locks in Apple's lead in the tech world.