Many iPhone users are holding back from downloading Apple’s latest iOS 26 update. A new report revealed a slower adoption rate in early January 2026 compared with earlier software rollouts. Read on to get the full update.
iPhone Users Slow To Update
Usually, most iOS users update quickly after a new release. This time the pace is much slower. However, it has been observed that many users may prefer to stay on older software that they believe is more stable. Some are happy with the way their phones work and choose not to change.
Reasons Behind Users’ Choices
Experts believe several factors are responsible for the slow adoption of iOS 26. They are as follows:
- Minor Improvements: Recent iOS updates bring only small changes. This makes users feel there’s little benefit in upgrading quickly.
- Performance Concerns: Some worry that new software might affect battery life or slow down older iPhone models.
- Update Fatigue: Frequent updates and long installation times make users less eager to download new versions.
- User Satisfaction: Many iPhone owners are comfortable with their current setup and see no urgent need to change it.
Why The Slow Adoption Matters
According to the report shared by PhoneArena, less than 60% of iPhone owners have installed the newest version so far. Apple usually benefits from most devices being on the same software version. This helps app makers create features that work for most users at the same time.
Adding to it, if many users stay on older versions, developers may need to support more software types. It could also mean more people miss out on new features or improvements in the latest iOS. But Apple still provides security updates for older versions. This may make users feel safe without updating right away.
The issue raises questions about whether Apple needs to make future updates more appealing or transparent about their benefits. As adoption patterns shift, the real reasons behind users’ hesitation could reveal much about what people now expect from software upgrades.
