# iOS 26: Comprehending Its Effects on Battery Life and Performance
iOS 26 is now accessible for iPhone users, and Apple has launched a new webpage to underline the significance of software updates, along with their possible repercussions on battery life and device performance.
## Short-term Effects on Battery and Performance
Apple has recently released a support document outlining the intricacies of software updates, highlighting the difference between major releases (e.g., 26.0) and minor updates (e.g., 26.1 or 26.1.1). A key emphasis of this document is the section named “Performance and battery impact,” which offers useful insights for users.
As per Apple, after completing a major update, users might notice a temporary reduction in battery life and a rise in thermal activity. This is a standard situation, as the device carries out background tasks such as indexing data, fetching new assets, and updating applications.
### Main Points from Apple’s Clarification
1. **Short-lived Pressure**: After a major software update, it is typical for the iPhone’s battery to deplete more rapidly and for the device to become temporarily warmer.
2. **Possible Long-term Consequences**: There may be an enduring effect on performance and battery life if new features require more resources from the device.
This information corroborates the experiences of numerous iPhone users who have faced comparable issues with prior updates.
## Anticipations After Installing iOS 26
The main message for users is that after installing iOS 26, there will be an initial period of heightened background processing that may burden the device. Generally, this should sort itself out within a few days. Nevertheless, sustained battery impact could occur if users extensively utilize new features that are resource-demanding.
Apple stresses that the degree of this impact can differ depending on individual usage habits.
In summary, while the short-term effects of iOS 26 on battery life and performance are anticipated, users should remain mindful of the possibilities for longer-term effects based on their usage of the new features. Grasping these dynamics can assist users in managing their expectations and enhancing their iPhone experience following the update.