New Delhi — A growing number of iPhone users are airing strong complaints after the rollout of iOS 26, claiming their device batteries are draining far faster than before. Complaints have surged across social media, with users noting steep power drops, heat buildup, and other performance issues soon after installing the update.
One user posted that their phone dropped from full charge to 79% in less than an hour post-update, while another said their battery health reading fell to 80% seemingly overnight. Multiple others expressed frustration that even with minimal usage, the battery level was dropping unusually quickly.
Apple has responded to the outcry, acknowledging that some battery drain and increased device heat are normal in the wake of a major update. The company explained that following such updates, devices often carry out various background processes—indexing files, updating apps, downloading system assets—tasks which can temporarily consume more power than usual.
In a newly published support notice, Apple warned that these changes in battery and thermal performance occur in many devices after major releases, and that while the changes are generally short-lived, they could be noticeable. The company also noted that certain features in iOS 26 demand more system resources, which may also contribute to heavier battery usage for some users depending on how they use their device.
Still, many users remain dissatisfied. Some reports say the battery issue hasn’t improved even days after the update, fueling concerns over whether the problem is purely temporary or indicative of deeper software inefficiencies. Others said that their phones have been noticeably hotter since installing the update, adding to worry about device longevity.
Experts note that such issues are not uncommon when smartphones receive significant software updates. The background activity required to reconfigure system databases, reindex content, and optimize apps often takes 24-48 hours—or even longer—before devices settle back into a more stable battery routine.
As of now, there is no widespread confirmation of a permanent battery defect in iOS 26 across all users. Apple has advised those affected to allow some time for background tasks to complete, keep their apps updated, and report any persistent anomalies through support channels.
For now, the company considers battery life issues post-update to be part of the standard adjustment process. Users are being encouraged to monitor performance over the next few days before drawing conclusions.