Why is iOS 26 adoption so low?

iOS 26 adoption is low due to user dissatisfaction with the 'Liquid Glass' design and a significant drop in adoption rates compared to previous iOS versions.

What is Apple's 'Liquid Glass' feature in iOS 26?

Liquid Glass is a system-wide aesthetic overhaul in iOS 26 that implements a translucent, glass-like quality throughout the user interface.

When did iOS 26 and iOS 26.1 release?

iOS 26 was rolled out in September, and iOS 26.1 was released in November, both in 2025.

Home / Technology / iOS 26 Adoption Plummets Amidst 'Liquid Glass' Debate

iOS 26 Adoption Plummets Amidst 'Liquid Glass' Debate

10 Jan

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Summary

Only 15% of iPhone users adopted iOS 26, a significant drop from previous updates.
The 'Liquid Glass' aesthetic overhaul has proven controversial among users.
iOS 26.1 introduced new languages for Apple Intelligence and other features.

iOS 26 Adoption Plummets Amidst 'Liquid Glass' Debate

As of January 2026, adoption of Apple's iOS 26 has stalled, with only approximately 15% of iPhone users worldwide making the upgrade. This figure marks a substantial decrease compared to previous iOS releases; for context, iOS 18 saw a 63% adoption rate by January 2025, and iOS 17 had over 54% by January 2024. These estimates are derived from StatCounter data.

The primary point of contention appears to be the 'Liquid Glass' aesthetic introduced with iOS 26 in September. This system-wide design change features a translucent, glass-like quality across the entire user interface. While praised by some designers, it has faced considerable criticism from users, with some deeming it an "embarrassment."

Despite the mixed reception of 'Liquid Glass,' users can mitigate its effects through settings like reduced transparency or Dark Mode. Furthermore, the subsequent iOS 26.1 update in November brought notable improvements, such as expanded language support for Apple Intelligence and new features like Live Translation on AirPods and enhanced child safety filters, potentially encouraging hesitant users to update.