iOS 26 Arrives Monday—5 Things to Do Before You Update, Apple’s long-awaited iOS 26 update is rolling out this Monday, and it’s packed with exciting new features and performance improvements. Before you rush to tap “Download and Install,” a little preparation can save you from data loss, app issues, or sluggish performance. Here are five key steps every iPhone owner should take to ensure a smooth upgrade.
1. Back Up Your iPhone
Before any major update, a full backup is non-negotiable. You can back up using iCloud or your computer:
- iCloud: Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup and tap Back Up Now.
- Finder/iTunes: Connect your iPhone to a Mac or PC, select your device, and choose Back Up Now.
This ensures that your photos, messages, and app data are safe if something goes wrong.
Tip: Double-check that your iCloud storage has enough space, or consider upgrading your plan.
2. Free Up Storage Space
iOS 26 will require several gigabytes of free space. Low on storage?
- Delete unused apps.
- Offload large videos or photos to iCloud or an external drive.
- Clear old messages and attachments.
Not only will this free up room for the update, but it can also help your iPhone run faster.
For detailed tips on managing storage, see Apple’s official storage guide.
3. Update Your Apps
Outdated apps can cause glitches after a major iOS upgrade. Open the App Store, tap your profile icon, and choose Update All. Developers often release updates that improve compatibility with the latest operating system.
4. Check Battery Health and Charge Fully
Install updates only when your battery is at least 50% charged—or better, keep your iPhone plugged in.
Navigate to Settings > Battery > Battery Health to make sure your battery is still performing well. If your battery is significantly degraded, consider a replacement to enjoy iOS 26’s performance improvements.
5. Review Privacy & Security Settings
Apple consistently enhances privacy features in new iOS versions. Before upgrading:
- Review which apps have location or camera access (Settings > Privacy).
- Check your two-factor authentication and update weak passwords.
You’ll be ready to take advantage of iOS 26’s new privacy tools from day one.
Why Preparation Matters
While Apple’s updates are generally smooth, skipping these steps can lead to lost photos, failed installations, or hours of troubleshooting. Think of it as a quick tune-up for your iPhone—your future self will thank you.
