For those who choose to install the RC, it offers a polished preview of iOS 26, complete with performance enhancements, battery optimizations, and improved stability. On the other hand, waiting for the public release ensures you receive the final version without any lingering uncertainties.

Apple has finally released iOS 26, and along with it, a notice about faster draining batteries and warmer-than-normal iPhones.

For iOS 26 and iPadOS 26, Apple has dropped just a handful of the oldest models supported by iOS 18 and iPadOS 18. But macOS 26 drops support for all but a handful of the remaining Intel Macs, and next year’s macOS 27 will drop Intel support entirely.

Increased battery drain is normal following a major OS update. Your phone needs time to complete the setup in the background. iOS 26 offers a new Adaptive Power mode to extend your battery charge. Raise your hand if you've updated your iPhone to iOS 26 and noticed the battery draining faster.

Apple’s latest iOS overhaul sports a glassier design and includes useful features like live language translation.

N ow that the iPhone 's latest mobile operating system, iOS 26, is officially out, you can finally try its new Liquid Glass interface and advanced AI features. But before you dive into all the new toys,