Owners of the tech giant’s mobile devices face severe instability after installing the latest software package, identified as version 26.2.1. The update, which was originally intended to prepare the ecosystem for integration with the new AirTag 2, resulted in technical issues ranging from excessive power consumption to blocking of biometric authentication tools. The scenario became more complex after confirmation that the company ended the digital subscription to the previous version, preventing consumers from carrying out the downgrade procedure to restore the normal functionality of their devices.
Severe impact on power and heating autonomy
Reports indicate that the top-of-the-line model, iPhone 17 Pro Max, suffered a drastic reduction in battery life after the update procedure. Background processing appears to operate at an unnecessary maximum frequency, causing noticeable overheating even when the device is at rest, forcing users to carry out multiple recharges throughout a single day.
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The energy drain occurs rapidly and appears to be linked to a failure to optimize the new drivers installed. Especialistas suggest that the operating system enters a continuous cycle of failed communication attempts with hardware components, generating thermal stress that can, in the long term, compromise the chemical health of the battery of the affected devices.
Blocking security functions and ghost data
The most critical flaw involves the Face ID facial recognition system, which becomes completely unresponsive after a system reset. Isso forces users to enter manual passwords to unlock screens and validate banking transactions, negating the convenience and security of advanced biometrics.
In addition to security issues, a storage management error has taken up around 30 GB of internal memory with inaccessible system files. Usuários report that even deleting heavy applications and photos, the free space does not increase as the system immediately fills the gap with corrupted data or error logs.
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The impossibility of reversing the update worsens the situation for those who depend on the device for work. Como the subscription to the previous stable version has been revoked, consumers remain stuck with unstable software while waiting for an official position or an emergency fix from the developers.
Instability in network and internet connections
Wireless connectivity was also severely affected, with frequent drops in both Wi-Fi networks and mobile data usage. Browsing becomes intermittent, hampering media streaming and video calls, which are suddenly interrupted due to loss of signal.
Technical support communities and specialized forums recommend caution to users who have not yet performed the update. The expectation is that a new build of the system will be released in the coming days to correct the integration flaws and restore the reliability of essential smartphone services.