Srinagar, September 21 — Apple’s latest iOS 26 update, featuring the new Liquid Glass interface, has faced criticism for causing lags, glitches, and battery drain on iPhones, prompting some users to revert to the more stable iOS 18.6.2, according to details received by The Chenab Times.
The iOS 26 rollout introduced significant visual changes, but many users have reported performance issues, including overheating and slowdowns. Apple acknowledges that such problems may occur temporarily after major updates due to background processes like re-indexing and app updates, as reported by WCCFtech.
For those seeking a smoother experience, Apple is still signing iOS 18.6.2, allowing users to downgrade. However, the process wipes all data from the device, making backups critical. WCCFtech advises users to proceed cautiously and secure multiple backups of photos, notes, and other data before starting.
To downgrade, users must first back up their iPhone using iCloud, Finder (Mac), or iTunes (Windows) and disable Find My iPhone. Next, they need to download the iOS 18.6.2 IPSW file from Apple’s official site or IPSW.me, ensuring compatibility with their iPhone model. The device is then connected to a computer and put into DFU mode by pressing the Volume Up button, followed by Volume Down, and holding the Side button until the screen goes black. Users must then hold both the Side and Volume Down buttons for five seconds, releasing the Side button while continuing to hold Volume Down. Finally, in Finder or iTunes, users select the downloaded iOS 18.6.2 file to restore the device, which will restart multiple times. After completion, users can restore their backup or set up the device as new.
Apple has not announced a timeline for addressing iOS 26 issues but continues to emphasize the importance of updates for security and functionality. Users facing persistent problems may find downgrading to iOS 18.6.2 a viable option until a more stable iOS 26 update is released.
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Full name
Tahir Rihat
Also known as
Tahir Bilal
Date of Birth
02 January 1999
Occupation
Journalist; Online Editor
Employer
The Chenab Times
Base
Thathri, Doda, Jammu & Kashmir, India
Website
tahirrihat.com
Social
Facebook
Instagram
YouTube
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an Indian journalist and online editor at The Chenab Times. Based in Thathri, Doda, he reports on regional affairs, civic governance, and human-interest stories across Jammu and Kashmir. Rihat also maintains a personal website, tahirrihat.com, where he shares professional updates and reflections on journalism in the Chenab Valley.
