Urgent iOS Update: Apple Pushes for iPhone Users to Upgrade to iOS 26

In December 2025, Apple announced a significant update decision that requires hundreds of millions of iPhone users to upgrade to iOS 26. This decision affects all iPhones from the iPhone 11 onwards, while older models, specifically the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR, are limited to iOS 18.7.3. The urgency for this update stems from the identification of active exploits targeting vulnerabilities in earlier iOS versions, particularly those affecting the WebKit browser engine.

ForbesApple iPhone users may have to update now as iOS 26.2 security push hits “Liquid Glass” holdoutsTom's Guide

Despite the critical nature of the update, adoption rates for iOS 26 have been notably sluggish. Estimates suggest that only 15% to over 50% of users have upgraded, with many citing dissatisfaction with the new "Liquid Glass" aesthetic, battery life concerns, and general reluctance to adapt to changes. This resistance has raised questions about whether the reported adoption figures accurately reflect the true situation, as some analytics tools have misidentified devices running iOS 26.

Tom's Guide

Apple has taken a proactive stance in urging users to update, emphasizing the importance of security patches included in iOS 26. Security researchers have highlighted the risks associated with not updating, noting that rebooting devices can temporarily disrupt malware but does not address underlying vulnerabilities. Pieter Arntz from Malwarebytes stated, “when you restart your device, any memory-resident malware is flushed—unless it has somehow gained persistence.”

Apple iPhone users may have to update now as iOS 26.2 security push hits “Liquid Glass” holdoutsTom's GuideForbes

The urgency to upgrade is underscored by the inclusion of 25 security patches in iOS 26. These patches address critical vulnerabilities that could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code or gain full control over devices. The flaws particularly affect WebKit, which powers Safari and other browsers on iPhones, posing a risk to all user activities, including banking sessions and personal communications.

Tom's Guide

Apple has reiterated the necessity of updating to iOS 26.2 or iOS 18.7.3 for older models, emphasizing that users should not delay. The company has acknowledged the challenges users face with the new interface but maintains that the security benefits far outweigh the inconveniences.

Apple iPhone users may have to update now as iOS 26.2 security push hits “Liquid Glass” holdouts

User feedback has been mixed, with many expressing frustration over the Liquid Glass design and its impact on usability. Some users have reported difficulties adjusting to the new interface, which has contributed to the slow adoption rate. Critics argue that Apple’s push for updates may not adequately address user concerns, particularly regarding the aesthetic changes and battery performance.

Tom's Guide

There is a discrepancy in reported adoption rates for iOS 26, with sources like StatCounter suggesting only 15% of users have upgraded, while others indicate higher figures. This inconsistency raises questions about the accuracy of tracking data and the overall user experience with the new software.

Apple iPhone users may have to update now as iOS 26.2 security push hits “Liquid Glass” holdouts

• “What This Means For Your iPhone If you have held off upgrading to iOS 26, honestly, don’t wait any longer.” — David Phelan, Technology Journalist

Forbes

• “And the update isn't limited to these two flaws: iOS 26 has patches for 25 different bugs that affect everything from Messages to FaceTime, Photos and the App Store and more.” — Tom's Guide

Tom's Guide

• “Security experts note that rebooting can make a difference in the brief period before users apply updates.” — Pieter Arntz, Malwarebytes

Apple iPhone users may have to update now as iOS 26.2 security push hits “Liquid Glass” holdouts

In conclusion, Apple’s recent update decision highlights the critical need for iPhone users to prioritize security by upgrading to iOS 26, despite the challenges posed by user resistance and interface changes.

Forbes