To stop your iPhone lagging, make sure you do these four things before downloading iOS 26

Make sure you’ve got your charger handy, because the brand-new iOS 26 update could temporarily rinse your iPhone battery and cause lagging.

The 19th version of the iPhone’s operating system dropped worldwide on Sunday, and while thousands of people have already taken the plunge, not everyone’s loving it.

Credit: Canva

The free software upgrade comes with a bunch of shiny new features. There’s a lock screen that automatically adapts to keep the subject in view, the option to switch app icons between light, dark, or clear, and streamlined photo and video modes for quicker editing. You’ll also notice dynamic messaging backgrounds, smarter maps that send you route notifications, and even a brand-new Games app to track your progress and challenge your mates.

But the biggest talking point is the new ‘Liquid Glass’ aesthetic. App icons, menus and notifications now have a glossy glass effect, and people online are seriously divided. Some hate the look, while others have complained about bugs and glitches that make everyday apps harder to use. Not exactly what you want from a major update.

Credit: Canva

So, if you’re tempted to try iOS 26, here are the four things you need to do first.

Delete your junk

It’s time to ditch the hundreds of screenshots, blurry photos and old apps you haven’t touched in years. Clearing space will make the update run far more smoothly and could even save you money on iCloud storage.

Update your apps

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If your apps aren’t up to date, they might become glitchy once you upgrade. Head to the App Store, tap your profile icon and scroll down to make sure everything’s updated before you hit install.

Charge your battery

Apple says your battery might drain more quickly after the update while your phone quietly reorganises files in the background. So keep it plugged in during the install and make sure you’re above 50 per cent before you start.

Check your Wi-Fi

This is not a café job. You need a strong, reliable internet connection so the update doesn’t cut out halfway through. Do it at home where your Wi-Fi is solid, not on patchy public hotspots.

With these five things done, iOS 26 should run much smoother on your iPhone with no lagging.

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Featured image credit: Apple, Canva