Apple has recently released its IOS 26 and if you are one for the many users who is hesitant to install the latest IOS update due to many different reasons and especially around the concerns around battery life or to avoid any changes then you might be missing away from some of the critical updates that is essential to your Iphone. Staying in an older IOS version can make your device and your personal data vulnerable to cyber attacks.
While we have seen relatively low adoption rate for IOS 26 around the globe, we at techiestudent Australia believe the reasons to upgrade actually outweighs the temporary inconveniences. In this guide, we will break down the major 4 reasons to install IOS 26 with the focus on device security, its performance and the customisation settings newly launched by apple.
The 4 critical reasons to upgrade to iOS 26
Security Patches
The first important reason to update to iOS 26 is security. Every new iOS version includes fixes for known vulnerabilities, and iOS 26 is no exception. Apple has released multiple patches since the initial launch, addressing critical flaws that could be exploited by hackers.
- iOS 26.0.1 fixed a dangerous flaw in Apple’s FontParser framework, which could allow attackers to corrupt memory or crash apps using malicious fonts.
- iOS 26.1 resolved over 51 security issues, any of which could have been used to compromise your device.
- iOS 26.2 addressed 25 bugs affecting core apps like App Store, FaceTime, Messages, and Photos—including two zero-day vulnerabilities that were actively exploited in targeted attacks.
If you’re still running iOS 18 or earlier, your iPhone may be exposed to these security gaps. Updating ensures you’re protected against the latest threats.
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Battery life and device performance
The second important reason to update to iOS 26 is the battery life and device performance. It’s common to experience slower performance or reduced battery life immediately after a major update. This is because your iPhone is working in the background to re-index files, update apps, and optimize settings. However, this is temporary.
Once your phone completes its update, battery life and speed typically return to normal—and often improve. iOS 26 includes background enhancements that help your iPhone run more efficiently over time. If you stay on an old OS it would means missing out on these new device features and optimisation.
Liquid Glass Display on iOS 26
The liquid glass display is a hot topic on the IOS 26. As it was rolled out, many users loved the liquid glass display and the translucent look of the UI while, other users did not like it at all and found it more distracting, too bright and overall not user friendly at all. However, the users had appreciated the control and the customisation it has offered to the UI.
Users can adjust the intensity of the liquid glass display and apply a tinted filter to softener the screen appearance, meaning you can customise it as per your preference.
Airdrop Security
Airdrop is the most convenient way to share the files with the apple users but at the same time it has raised security concerns world wide. Previously, the users could only share the contacts or set the airdrop visibility to “Everyone” for about 10 minutes. But this has been changed in the IOS 26, where apple has introduced a more secure option of using one time code for the airdrop transfers – meaning the users will need to exchange the codes before actually transferring the file which adds additional layer of user security that only allows file transfer after the code verification between devices. This update makes AirDrop both more flexible and more secure as well as ideal for professional settings or sharing with acquaintances.
Frequently Asked Questions About iOS 26
Q: Will iOS 26 slow down my older iPhone?
A: Temporary slowdowns are normal post-update, but performance stabilizes within a few days. Older devices still benefit from security patches.
Q: Can I skip iOS 26 and wait for the next update?
A: Not recommended. Skipping updates leaves your device vulnerable to known security flaws.
Q: What if I don’t like the new features?
A: Many changes, like Liquid Glass, can be adjusted or turned down. The security benefits alone make the update worthwhile.
Q: How long does the update take?
A: Typically 15–30 minutes, depending on your internet speed and device model.
It’s easy to put off software updates—they take time, they change familiar layouts, and they can feel unnecessary. But with iOS 26, the benefits are: critical security patches protect your data from real-world threats, better battery and performance after a short adjustment period, customizable Liquid Glass lets you control your phone’s look, safer AirDrop sharing with one-time codes. Your iPhone is more than a communication tool—it’s a vault for personal information, photos, and sensitive data and keeping it updated is the simplest way to keep your device safe.
