Many iPhone users have reported faster battery drain after installing iOS 26.1, but Apple says this is normal and temporary. The company confirmed that when a new update is installed, the system performs several background processes that may affect battery life for a short period.
According to Apple, the device begins indexing files, updating apps, downloading system assets, and optimizing features as soon as the update is installed. These tasks require more power, which can make the phone feel warmer and use the battery more quickly. Apple explains that once these processes finish, battery performance will return to its usual level.
The company also pointed out that user habits can influence battery usage. Many people spend more time exploring new features right after an update, which naturally increases screen time and drains the battery faster.
Apple has given similar clarifications during previous major software releases. The company encourages users not to worry and to allow their device some time to settle after installing iOS 26.1. In most cases, battery life stabilizes within a few days.
In summary, the noticeable drop in battery performance after updating to iOS 26.1 is expected and temporary. Users are advised to simply let the device complete its background setup before assuming there’s a problem with the battery.
