IPhone users resist iOS 26 and maintain the previous version on more than 60% of devices

The update to iOS 26, released in mid-September 2025, recorded an adoption rate of approximately 16% among iPhone users worldwide by January 2026. The data, collected by web analytics services, indicates that the majority of devices remain on previous versions of the operating system. Essa percentage represents the lowest rate recorded for a major update of Apple in the same period after launch. The company facilitates the upgrade process through direct notifications and over-the-air installation, which often speeds up migration on previous versions.

Comparison with past updates highlights the significant difference in user behavior. In similar cycles, versions like iOS 18 achieved rates above 60% in the same time frame. Apple maintains extended support for older iPhone models, allowing millions of devices to receive the same update simultaneously, regardless of carrier or region.

The new look introduced in iOS 26 appears to be the main factor in user resistance. Conhecido like Liquid Glass, the design adopts translucent and fluid elements that transform icons, buttons and menus into frosted glass-like surfaces. Embora the proposal seeks greater immersion and dynamism, some users report readability difficulties on different backgrounds.

Design features Liquid Glass

Liquid Glass represents the biggest visual overhaul of iOS in a decade. Controles and navigation bars gain a translucent appearance that adapts to the content displayed on the screen. Animações fluid transitions between apps and menus.

These elements create a feeling of depth and constant movement in the interface. Apple describes the feature as a way to prioritize user content, reducing fixed visual distractions. Desenvolvedores of third-party applications have already adapted their products to the new standard to maintain consistency.

Many users, however, point out practical problems in everyday life. Blurred Ícones makes quick identification difficult on light or dark backgrounds. Botões with high transparency lose contrast in certain lighting conditions.

Criticisms of readability and accessibility

Usability experts identify flaws in the contrast of Liquid Glass on complex backgrounds. Textos and icons can blend in when superimposed on colorful images or busy patterns. Constant animation of elements causes visual fatigue with prolonged use.

Users with low vision report a significantly worsened overall experience. Configurações of accessibility, such as reduced transparency, mitigates some of the effects, but does not completely eliminate the changes. Comunidades online records an increase in complaints about difficulty locating controls quickly.

The Apple offers options for adjusting effect intensity in display settings. Ainda therefore, the default implementation remains active upon initial system installation.

Comparison with previous updates

Recent versions of iOS showed much higher adoption rates in the first few months. iOS 18, for example, surpassed 60% installation in the equivalent period after its launch. The same pattern was repeated in previous cycles, with rapid migration of most compatible devices.

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• iOS 18: above 60% in four months
• iOS 17: around 70% in the same range
• iOS 16: approximately 65% ​​initial adoption
• iOS 15: close to 75% at similar stage

These numbers reflect users’ historical confidence in Apple updates.

Current version distribution

Data from January 2026 shows clear dominance of iOS 18 versions in their variations. Aproximadamente 33% of devices run iOS 18.7, while 25% remain on iOS 18.6. Versões minors from iOS 26 appear in percentages below 11%.

Reduced fragmentation has always been Apple’s competitive advantage over competitors. Extended support for older models contributes to this uniformity. In the current case, however, the preference for the stability of previous versions prevails.

Other factors that influence the update

Insufficient storage prevents some installations on older devices. The update requires considerable free space, which leads users to postpone the process. Espera for initial bug fixes also motivates staying in stable versions.

Reports indicate greater battery consumption in some models after migration to iOS 26. Apple releases occasional updates to resolve reported problems. Ainda therefore, caution prevails among owners of older iPhones.

Opinions from developers and analysts

Developers highlight Liquid Glass’s creative potential for immersive experiences. Updated Aplicativos gain greater dynamism in transitions and interactions. Analistas market analysts note that current resistance may dissipate with future adjustments.

Apple often refines controversial features in subsequent updates. User behavior suggests a need for broader visual customization options. Monitoramento continuous data will indicate the evolution of the adoption rate in the coming months.

Facilities offered by Apple for updating

The update process remains simple and accessible directly from the Ajustes app. Notificações automatic alerts about the availability of a new version. Installation occurs wirelessly, requiring only a stable connection and sufficient battery power.

The company maintains security support for previous versions for an extended period of time. Isso reduces risks for those who choose to remain on the current version. Milhões of supported devices receive the same update on global launch day.