Following every iOS update, reports begin popping up all around the internet from user who claim that after installing the latest update the battery on their iPhone is draining faster than ever. iOS 26.2, which was released to the public in mid-December, is no exception to the rule.
As usual, some users report their iPhone’s battery is draining faster after updating it to iOS 26.2. While this may be true, Apple that its normal and is only temporary.
“This is normal, as your device needs time to complete the setup process in the background, including indexing data and files for search, downloading new assets, and updating apps,” Apple wrote in a support page. “Immediately after completing an update, particularly a major release, you might notice a temporary impact on battery life and thermal performance.”
Apple adds that the way you use your iPhone can cause your battery to drain more quickly as well.
“New features are exciting and help you get even more out of your Apple product, though some may require additional resources from the device,” Apple says on the same page. “Depending on individual usage, some users may notice a small impact on performance and/or battery life. Apple continually works to optimize these features in software updates to ensure great battery life and a smooth user experience.”
What all of this means is that if you are seeing worse battery life, it should be temporary. Once the indexing and other background tasks are completed, and once you get tired of playing with any new features an update brings, things should soon be back to normal.