Apple’s latest iPhone operating system, iOS 26, was officially released worldwide on September 15, 2025. While many users are excited about the new features, some have expressed concern about a controversial design change called ‘Liquid Glass’ and other potential bugs. If you’re planning to upgrade, experts recommend doing five important things first to ensure a smooth experience.
iOS 26 introduces dynamic lock screens that adapt to keep subjects in view, options to change app icons to light, dark, or transparent styles, and improvements in Photo and Video modes for quicker access. Other updates include dynamic messaging backgrounds, improved map notifications, and a brand-new Games app to track progress and challenge friends.
However, the new ‘Liquid Glass’ effect reshapes the look of app icons, notifications, labels, and menus with a semi-transparent, glassy aesthetic. Some users love its originality, while others call it a “ridiculous” fad or complain about bugs experienced during beta testing.
Before upgrading to iOS 26, here’s what you should do according to tech experts:
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Remove Unnecessary Files and Apps: Delete screenshots, infrequently used games, and documents to free up storage space. This decluttering makes the update process smoother and may reduce iCloud storage usage.
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Update All Your Apps: Make sure all apps are updated to avoid glitches and compatibility issues during the upgrade. Check the App Store for pending updates if automatic updates aren’t enabled.
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Backup Your Data: Back up your photos, contacts, and important files to iCloud or a computer. This guard against data loss if anything goes wrong during the update.
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Charge Your Battery: Plug in your iPhone or ensure it has over 50% battery life before starting the update to prevent shutdowns mid-process. Apple warns that battery performance may temporarily degrade post-update while the system completes background tasks.
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Ensure Stable Internet Connection: Upgrade using a strong, reliable Wi-Fi connection, preferably at home. Avoid public networks that disconnect frequently.
Following these steps can reduce stress and help you enjoy the new iOS features with minimal disruption. Whether you embrace or critique the ‘Liquid Glass’ aesthetic, the update marks a significant step in Apple’s software evolution.
