Why are iOS 26 adoption numbers inaccurate?

A bug in Apple's Safari browser incorrectly reports devices as running older iOS versions, skewing the actual adoption data for iOS 26.

What are users saying about iOS 26?

Many iPhone users are expressing dissatisfaction with iOS 26's new Liquid Glass design and faster battery drain.

When will Apple fix the iOS 26 reporting bug?

Apple is expected to address the Safari bug in a future update, likely iOS 26.3.

Home / Technology / Apple's Safari Bug Skews iOS 26 Upgrade Numbers

Apple's Safari Bug Skews iOS 26 Upgrade Numbers

14 Jan

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Summary

A Safari bug incorrectly reports iOS 18.7 as the most popular version.
Fewer than 5% of iPhone users are on the latest iOS 26.2 version.
Many users dislike iOS 26's Liquid Glass design and battery drain.

Apple's Safari Bug Skews iOS 26 Upgrade Numbers

iPhone users are reportedly unhappy with the iOS 26 update, citing the controversial Liquid Glass design and increased battery drain. However, official adoption figures may be skewed due to a significant bug within Apple's Safari browser. This flaw incorrectly displays many devices as running iOS 18.7, the most popular iteration of the older system, according to Statcounter.

This reporting anomaly means that the actual number of users on iOS 26.2, the latest version, is likely far lower than it appears. Current data suggests less than 5% of iPhones have upgraded, with an additional 10% on iOS 26.1. The vast majority of users remain on iOS 18, with a small percentage still using even older versions like iOS 16 or 15.

The implications of this Safari bug are substantial, preventing a clear understanding of user sentiment and upgrade behavior for iOS 26. While user discontent is evident online, the true adoption rate will only become clear once Apple releases a fix, presumably in iOS 26.3, to correct the reporting error and provide accurate data.