If you are an iPhone user, and you have a iOS 26 compatible modelbut you are still on iOS 18, due to laziness to update your device, or because of the belief that it is going to get worse, thinking that if it is going well it is better not to touch it, you may be wrong.
And we are not only talking about a visual improvement or performancebut of securityso Apple is trying to pressure all users who have stayed on previous versions to upgrade to the latest one, since it is the most advisable thing to do.
Why update to iOS 26
Apple is pushing people still using iOS 18 to move to iOS 26. Starting in December 2025, when you go to Settings – Software Update, iOS 26 appears as the recommended option; iOS 18 is still there, but now it is down. It's not an imposition: you can stay on iOS 18 for now and continue receiving security patches, although Apple could stop offering them in the coming months for those who can upgrade.
Why do they do it? iOS 26 arrived in September and brings visible changes: an interface called “Liquid Glass”, new features powered by Apple's built-in intelligence, Messaging and security improvements, and various cosmetic tweaks. It's a version designed for those who want the latest in looks and features, but it also breaks with the way many are used to using the iPhone, so not everyone upgrades right away.
There are two key points that are worth knowing. First, If you update to iOS 26 from iOS 18 you will not be able to go back: The update is irreversible. Second, Apple usually leaves the option to stay on the previous version for a while, but then tends to push all supported devices to the latest one. That means that if you care about keeping your phone secure and supported, sooner or later, you'll have to upgrade.
If the change to the new interface bothers you, you can wait a little longer: iOS 18 continues to receive support for now. If, on the other hand, you are interested in trying out the new features and don't mind the redesign, the recommended option makes it easy for you from Settings. Any security breach, will be fixed sooner in iOS 26and you will eventually have to update, so it may be time to do it now.
And you, are you one of those who is still on iOS 18? It is true that the fact of not being able to download again once we update means that many do not want to risk it, since, on occasions, the change has been for the worse, and the autonomy, for example, has been reduced, so they are afraid to do it and that everything will get worse, without being able to go back.
However, iOS 26 seems to work very well on all models, so we encourage you to do so if you haven't already. Leave us a comment if so, with your opinions behind it, as well as the model in which you did it, so that other users are also encouraged.
I will never update to this shitty nonupgrade that utilizes AI to invade privacy and record you. Read the fine print. This is the mark of the beast. Fuck you apple and anyone pushing for this unusable invasive upgrade. Im buying and android and smashing all apple products with a hammer. DONT DO THE UPGRADE.