Since its debut in September, the iOS 26 update has been available to users, appearing specifically as an optional upgrade located at the bottom of the Software Update interface within the Settings application.
iOS 18 has consistently served as the default operating system selection presented to users, and consequently, individuals whose devices are currently running iOS 18 have observed that updates specifically for iOS 18 are the versions that have been displayed front and center on their software update screens. As of today, however, that situation is undergoing a transformation. iOS 18 users who have not yet installed iOS 26 will now find iOS 26.1 is the recommended iOS update prominently displayed within the Settings application. Updates for iOS 18 remain an available option for users, although they are now positioned at the bottom of the application interface.
Apple Isn’t Forcing Isers to Install iOS 26
While Apple is not compelling users to install iOS 26, it is now more aggressively promoting the update than previously, in a strategic effort to significantly boost the total number of installations. A subset of users might be reluctant to make the transition to iOS 26 due to the comprehensive Liquid Glass design overhaul, which introduces significant modifications to the entire iPhone user interface.
The option for users to remain on the preceding version of iOS has been available from Apple since iOS 15, though this choice is not offered indefinitely. Presently, Apple is continuing to furnish iOS 18 security updates to individuals who opt to remain on that operating system, but this provision is expected to cease within the upcoming months. Subsequent to its initial strategic effort of attempting to persuade a greater number of users to proceed with the upgrade to iOS 26 by ensuring the option for that newer operating system is more prominently displayed within the software update interface, it is highly probable that Apple will proceed to completely remove the ability for users to continue utilizing iOS 18 as a supported option, which would consequently result in iOS 26 being the only available software upgrade presented on all devices that possess the necessary comapatibility to support the installation of the latest software iteration.
Apple Has Not Yet Announced The Official iOS 2026 Figures
Ultimately, all customers who wish to ensure they remain current with the latest security patches and fixes will be required to eventually make the transition to iOS 26, though it is important to note that Apple will maintain the provision of iOS 18 updates specifically for those devices that are not compatible with or capable of supporting the installation of iOS 26. As Apple has not yet released its official iOS 26 adoption figures, the total quantity of individuals who have ultimately decided to proceed with the major software upgrade remains unknown.
Apple typically waits several months after the launch of a new iOS version to disclose its official adoption figures, leading to the expectation that we might receive the specific details regarding iOS 26 installation rates sometime in January or February. The action of upgrading from iOS 18 to iOS 26 is a permanent, irreversible process, and Apple does not offer any official method or capability for users to perform a downgrade back to the previously installed version of iOS.