Ios26.1 looks terrible and seems slow.

how to make ios26.1 look a lot better? The new update looks terrible and things that you could see are now blocked like in safari.


this is a very, very big step back in terms of usability and looks. Please set it back.


and I can feel my battery getting warm just using this message board and noting else. Seems like the update is going to kill my battery.

iPhone 13 mini, iOS 26

Posted on Dec 7, 2025 6:15 PM

Reply
11 replies

Dec 8, 2025 6:51 AM in response to Alfagtvdriver

Alfagtvdriver wrote:

So I can’t say that the new update looks bad and is worse to interact with? Seems that the developers would want to know that.

The developers won't read your post here, so if that is the intention then you should use the Feedback link here, where it will then be read by Apple.

Product Feedback - Apple


This is just a support site made up of Apple users that may be able to help with an issue you are having. We did not design iOS or have no inside information about any future releases. Remember that this is not a Social Media site and there is a drastic difference if the intent and purpose of a post on either type of site.


If you want to did deeper into the issues you are having, you can certainly provide more information. The most important would be when did you update? Apple has issued a Support Article saying you should expect battery drain, heat, and lag for a short period of time after the update. From what we have seen, this usually takes about 3-5 days to finish indexing files and performing the new object detection algorithms on your entire photo library.

About Apple software updates - Apple Support


The other detail you should include is your Battery Health percentage. The battery in the iPhone 13 is only expected to last 500 charge cycles before the health drops below 80% and needs replacing. You will experience lag when the battery needs replacing and the iOS update does not change the charge cycles, although it may expose an already failing battery with the increased demands.


Not sure what you are seeing blocking in Safari and a screenshot may be beneficial. It may be the box with up/down arrows and the checkmark for navigating between text fields. This is the same information that was above the keyboard where instead of the checkmark it was labelled as Done to remove the keyboard. The only difference is that it is now detached.


The screen real estate that it takes up is basically the same, other than the 2 pixel difference from the bottom to the top of the keyboard, it just looks different when detached. You were never able to see content behind that field before when it was attached to the keyboard. I can provide differences in the 2 look if you wish or you can find them on the internet, but not sure if that is what you are referring to. It may also be the Hover Text box that you can turn off at Settings > Accessibility > Hover Text.

Dec 10, 2025 8:26 PM in response to Alfagtvdriver

"Ios26.1 looks terrible and seems slow.: how to make ios26.1 look a lot better? The new update looks terrible and things that you could see are now blocked like in safari. this is a very, very big step back in terms of usability and looks. Please set it back. and I can feel my battery getting warm just using this message board and noting else. Seems like the update is going to kill my battery."

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Blocked Apps After Update:

So, how have exactly would you define "blocked"? If they are missing from the Home Screen, then Drag & Drop them to the Home Screen from the App Library.


Troubleshooting a Lagging iPhone:

Clear Space Using my User Tips:

See if you need to clear lots of space. System resources may be using up too much services, making it overheat. Internal storage cannot be upgraded. It is what it is. So, the maximum internal storage capacity never increases, even if you upgraded your iCloud plan. Learn More here: What's the Difference Between Device Storage and iCloud Storage? Apple Support

So, what to do...

Clear Space, Using my User Tips:

Dec 12, 2025 7:34 AM in response to Dellanzo

Dellanzo wrote:
I feel the same. Absolutely hate the new look and feel it's awkward and slow all the extra movement gives me a headache and the fades from the reduced movement are worse. The keyboard has changed the look of all the apps have changed. We need options to make our phones our own. The last look was working perfectly fine why fix what's not broken

You should let Apple know how you feel. This site is simply made up of users who will not make none of that happen for you. Some will confuse this user to user Support Site with a Social Media site thinking the Apple is going to help them here or that their posts will be forwarded to Apple. Nobody is doing that for you here. You may have forgotten that when iOS 18 was released, there were these same posts on this Support Site from some users that hated it, and ironically now that is the one they liked the most. The same has been true actually for every update.


Here is the feedback link where your concerns will actually be read by Apple.

Product Feedback - Apple


If you have a specific issue you would like help with, feel free to create a new post with any specific details provided so it does not get lost here. There are some tweaks in Settings you can do now that may help you. You may also see further improvements in iOS 26.2, but it is currently still in beta, so we cannot discuss those changes.

Liquid Glass - Love It Or Hate It - It's … - Apple Community


"why fix what's not broken"

Because with that design philosophy, you would still be on iOS 3.0, which was probably the most stable release after the initial iPhone launch. You will never see that philosophy in the technology world, in fact I can't think of field where that has ever been the case. Have you bought a new car lately?

Dec 7, 2025 9:38 PM in response to Alfagtvdriver

It's not always the iOS update's fault!  Many things can cause phone problems.  If you tell people you think it's an iOS update, it might make it harder to fix or find a solution for the real issue.



Remember, the right question often leads to the solution!



Was/Is your device Jailbroken? If that's the situation, please be informed that attributing the issues to iOS updates may not be accurate.



iOS updates aim to enhance user experience, boost security, and fix bugs rather than disrupt core features. The majority of the issues after updates might stem from underlying, unmentioned factors. Updates won't typically alter personal data but may refine settings or features. Backup before major updates for safety. Review Apple's update details and backup advice for a smooth process.


Kindly consider checking your settings and addressing any device issues before attributing the issue to external factors. This could be a pure coincidence that the iOS update affected the iPhone functions.


Before initiating a standard iOS update, it's advisable to create a backup. Have you completed this step? If yes, proceed with the restoration from the backup.



See what each update does: OS — iOS 26, About iOS 18 Updates, About iOS 17 Updates, About iOS 16 Updates, About iOS 15 Updates, About iOS 14 Updates, About iOS 13 Updates, About iOS 12 Updates, and so on...


Dec 7, 2025 9:38 PM in response to Alfagtvdriver

There may be several reasons due to which an iPhone may behave as described by you. Some of them could be...


Let's delve a bit deeper into some of them:

  1. Storage: A full iPhone can definitely slow things down. Phones can experience performance issues when the storage is nearly full. Users can check their storage status by going to Settings > General > [Device] Storage. Deleting unnecessary apps, photos, or videos can free up space and improve performance. How to check the storage on your iPhone and iPad - Apple Support.
  2. Battery Health: A degraded battery can impact performance. A deteriorating battery can impact the overall performance of an iPhone. Checking the battery health can be done by going to Settings > Battery > Battery Health. If the maximum capacity is significantly reduced, it might be time to replace the battery. Prolong and Maximise Battery Performance … - Apple Community
  3. Incorrect Handling: Accidental drops or bumps can cause internal damage. looking at the Apple's guide on proper handling is a good step. Important handling information for iPhone - Apple Support (IN)
  4. Environmental Issues: Extreme temperatures, dust, and water exposure can all be detrimental.
    1. Keeping iPhone clean is an important step. Dust accumulation in the iPhone's ports and openings can affect functionality. Apple provides guidelines on how to clean iPhones safely, which usually involves using a soft, lint-free cloth to remove dust without causing damage. Cleaning your iPhone - Apple Support
    2. Keep the iPhone within temperature limits. Phones are designed to operate within a specific temperature range. Exposure to extreme temperatures, especially in parked cars, can lead to overheating or other performance issues. If your iPhone or iPad gets too hot or too cold - Apple Support.
    3. Addressing safety issues is also important: Important safety information for iPhone - Apple Support (IN)
  5. Unauthorized Service: Servicing an iPhone through unauthorized channels can result in substandard repairs and void warranties. Users should always seek authorized Apple service centers for repairs and maintenance.
    1. Repairs by unqualified technicians can introduce new problems. Find information about your warranty or AppleCare plan - Apple Support is helpful.
    2. Modification / Alteration of an iPhone by a third-party vendor may cause issues beyond repair. --> Unauthorized modification of iOS - Apple Support (IN)
  6. Jailbreak: Now, let's talk about jailbreaking. Jailbreaking removes Apple's restrictions, allowing for more customization and app installation outside the App Store. However, it can also lead to instability, security vulnerabilities, and issues receiving future iOS updates.


By considering all these possibilities, you've provided a comprehensive approach to troubleshooting the iPhone's behavior.


Understanding and addressing these factors can help you maintain the optimal performance and longevity of their iPhones. Following Apple's guidelines and seeking authorized support when needed are crucial for a positive user experience.



If you are sure it is the fault of the equipment.


If you have either dropped the device accidentally or exposed it to liquid or used it beyond acceptable temperature limits then…



Take your device to an Apple Retail Store or Apple Authorized Service Provider, or contact Apple Support:


Find Locations - Location Selector - Apple


Contact Apple for support and service - Apple Support 




Get a Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple


Contact Genius Bar.

Manage Reservations - My Reservations - Apple



Dec 7, 2025 9:39 PM in response to Alfagtvdriver

Alfagtvdriver wrote:

... Please set it back.


This platform is designed as a user-to-user forum with Apple Inc. acting as a moderator. The primary objective is to foster a community where users can participate in meaningful discussions while adhering to established guidelines.


This platform serves as a space for users to engage in meaningful conversations, share information, and exchange ideas related to Apple products. It's a community-driven initiative where users support each other by sharing their experiences and technical expertise in using Apple devices. While Apple Inc. is not actively participating in these discussions, the forum is a valuable resource for seeking guidance and assistance from fellow users who possess a wealth of experience with Apple products. Feel free to explore the discussions, ask questions, and benefit from the collective knowledge of this community.



Please note that this is a public forum, so when attaching a screenshot, please avoid including any personal credentials such as IP addresses, card details, email IDs, Apple IDs, IMEI numbers, serial numbers, phone numbers, order IDs, invoices, or any identifiable location information if you are sharing a map.



Dec 7, 2025 9:50 PM in response to azaksalmarzur28

azaksalmarzur28 wrote:

Switch Safari to Single Tab
Adjust Display Zoom + text size
Reduce Motion + Cross-Fade
Turn off heavy background processes
Let indexing finish while charging
Disable haptics for heat + battery

Nonsense. If you have a support article, then provide it. Everything else is just AI chatter without any useful information being provided. You can do much better or even test the results before you post.

Ios26.1 looks terrible and seems slow.

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