Apple has recently revealed updated adoption statistics for iOS 26 and iPadOS 26, showing exactly how many devices are now running the latest software. These numbers give a clear snapshot of how users are embracing the new updates.
iOS 26 Adoption on iPhones
According to Apple, the data is based on devices that accessed the App Store on February 12, 2026. Here’s the breakdown:
- Nearly three-quarters of iPhones launched in the past four years are now running iOS 26.
- 66% of all iPhones currently use iOS 26.
These numbers indicate strong adoption among newer devices, though slightly slower across the overall iPhone base.
iPadOS 26 Adoption on iPads
iPad adoption is also steadily increasing. Apple reports:
- 66% of iPads introduced in the last four years are on iPadOS 26.
- 57% of all iPads are using the latest iPadOS 26.
This shows that while newer iPads are quick to update, older devices lag slightly behind.
Comparison With iOS 18
To put this in perspective, here are the iOS 18 adoption rates from January 21, 2025:
- 76% of iPhones from the last four years ran iOS 18.
- 68% of all iPhones had iOS 18.
- 63% of iPads from the last four years were on iPadOS 18.
- 53% of all iPads had iPadOS 18.
Initially, the adoption figures seem close, but the timing of the releases makes a big difference.
Why iOS 26 Adoption Is Slower
The iOS 26 statistics were recorded about 150 days after the update’s release, compared to 127 days for iOS 18. That extra three weeks makes a notable difference.
Even with this extended window, adoption for iOS 26 is slightly slower than iOS 18. Many users are reportedly hesitant to upgrade due to the new Liquid Glass design, preferring to wait before updating.
iPadOS 26 Outpaces iPadOS 18 Slightly
Interestingly, iPadOS 26 shows higher adoption than iPadOS 18. Yet, this advantage is partly because iPadOS 26 had three more weeks of availability.
Overall, Apple’s data confirms a moderate slowdown in adoption for both iPhones and iPads, but nothing dramatic.
Final Thoughts on iOS 26 Updates
Apple’s latest adoption figures reveal that users are cautiously upgrading. While newer devices embrace iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 quickly, older models remain on previous software.
Developers and app makers should note these trends for app compatibility and user experience planning.
Staying informed on adoption numbers helps both users and developers understand how fast new iOS and iPadOS updates are being integrated.
